Darkroom Printing

Course Duration: 3 hours
Class Size: 2 people
Cost: $430 (materials included)

Course Overview:

This hands-on course will guide participants through the process of creating high-quality color prints from negatives using traditional darkroom techniques. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the materials, equipment, and processes involved in the RA-4 color printing process, from preparation to final print production.

Learning Objectives:

By the end of this workshop, students will be able to:

  • Understand how to properly prepare RA-4 chemistry.

  • Gain hands-on experience with the enlarger and its components.

  • Be able to create high-quality color prints from negatives using traditional darkroom methods.

  • Leave with 3 final color darkroom prints of their own creation.

Course Breakdown:

1. Introduction & RA-4 Chemistry Preparation (1 Hour)

  • Overview: Introduction to the materials and equipment used in RA-4 color printing.

  • Activities:

    • Preparing the RA-4 chemistry solutions (developer, stop bath, and fixer).

    • Safety procedures for handling chemicals in the darkroom.

    • Explanation of the chemistry's role in the color print development process.

2. Review of Enlarger Operation (30 Minutes)

  • Overview: Participants will be introduced to the enlarger and its components, including the light source, negative carriers, focusing mechanism, and paper holders.

  • Activities:

    • Understanding how to load and focus negatives.

    • Learning how to set the correct exposure and contrast using filters.

    • Practical experience operating the enlarger

3. Creating Darkroom Prints (1.5 Hours)

  • Overview: Participants will make their own prints, applying the skills learned in the previous sessions.

  • Activities:

    • Printing color negatives onto FUJIFILM Fujicolor Crystal Archive Type II paper.

    • Monitoring exposure time and making test prints to perfect the final result.

    • Developing the prints through the RA-4 process and troubleshooting any issues.

    • Evaluating print quality and adjusting as needed.

Materials Provided:

  • Chemicals: RA-4 Chemistry Set (Developer, Stop Bath, Fixer).

  • Paper: FUJIFILM Fujicolor Crystal Archive Type II photographic paper for printing.

  • Safety Gear: Gloves, glasses, and masks for safety during chemical preparation and handling.

Pre-requisites:

  • No prior darkroom experience is required, but a general understanding of photography and negatives is recommended.

  • Participants should wear appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes.

Final Deliverables:

  • Each participant will leave with 3 high-quality color darkroom prints made during the course.

Important Notes:

  • Due to the hands-on nature and small class size, only 2 students are accepted per session to ensure personalized instruction.

  • Please arrive 15 minutes early to allow time for setup.

  • Safety First: Proper protective gear (gloves and glasses) will be provided and must be worn during the development phase.

  • Chemicals: All chemicals will be provided, and participants will be guided in how to properly dispose of or store them.

Registration:

Register Here