Learn to process black and white photographic film

About this course

Participants begin with a short local photo walk, using observation and composition while shooting a roll of black and white film. In the studio, demonstrations and practical exercises cover loading film in darkness, preparing photographic chemistry, developing, fixing, washing and drying negatives, followed by making an analogue contact sheet. The course also introduces standard and more environmentally friendly chemistry options, home-processing approaches, digitisation and negative storage. Teaching combines presentations, demonstrations, location photography, individual guidance and group discussion, with attention to the safe handling and disposal of chemicals.

What you'll learn

• Load, shoot and process black and white film
• Measure and mix chemicals for film and photographic paper
• Apply the stages of developing, fixing, washing and drying film
• Make a basic analogue contact sheet and identify options for digitising negatives
• Store and catalogue processed negatives
• Follow health and safety requirements when handling photographic chemistry

Is this course right for you?

This intermediate course is intended for learners who already know how to use their own film camera and make correct exposures. Participants work individually during practical tasks, join group discussions and follow written and verbal instructions, demonstrations and health and safety information. The off-site photo walk involves walking 500 metres or more.

• Previous knowledge of operating a film camera and making correct exposures is required
• Simple measurements and calculations are part of the course
• The course includes both local outdoor photography and studio-based processing
• The studio is wheelchair accessible, although the photo walk takes place off site

Before you go

• Bring a standard roll of black and white film.
• Bring a camera if available. A college 35mm SLR may be borrowed if the learner is confident using it.
• Warm and waterproof clothing is needed for the outdoor photo walk.
• Learners may wish to bring a notebook and pen.
• Tripods are available to use during class hours.
• The photo walk requires walking 500 metres or more.