The Black and White Film Photography Course

About this course

The course combines location photography with guided darkroom sessions. Participants learn to operate an analogue camera, meter exposure, choose film and compose images for monochrome photography before shooting a roll of black and white film. They then process the film safely, examine negatives through contact sheets, experiment with photograms and make a black and white print. Teaching includes demonstrations, supervised practice, practical tips and feedback throughout the sessions.

What you'll learn

• Operate the basic controls of an analogue camera
• Apply exposure and light-metering principles to black and white photography
• Select suitable film types for monochrome photography
• Process black and white film using chemicals and darkroom equipment safely
• Create a contact sheet and a black and white darkroom print

Is this course right for you?

The course is labelled Beginner but is intended for learners who already have a basic understanding of photography. Participation involves a location photoshoot, handling film and chemicals, and carrying out practical darkroom work under guidance.

• Basic understanding of photography is expected.
• The course includes both outdoor camera work and wet-darkroom sessions.
• Learners work directly with film-processing chemicals and darkroom equipment.

Before you go

• Participants need to bring a black and white film, preferably Ilford HP5 400 ISO, for the first session.
• An SLR film camera is recommended, although a camera can be borrowed for the location photoshoot.
• Participants need a small quantity of black and white photographic paper, which may be brought or bought in the darkroom.