CharlesDAMorgan
Veteran
One of the wonders of Plymouth, a port city of immense history, is the astonishing Royal William Yard. Built in the early 19th century to supply the Royal Navy with high quality food, it is an architectural gem. It was turned over to civilian use about 20 years ago, and re-developed as high quality housing and restaurants, plus a complex of artists' studios. In there is a community photography company, with studio, digital suite and full darkroom, with 6 enlargers, and tons of space.
So I joined last week, and after an induction, started today. I have taken courses before with a friend who is an Ilford artisan partner, but the only real way to learn is to use and use and learn. It's a lot tougher than Lightroom, but the results are soo much better. Getting exposure right in camera seems to be the best starting point!
Tried some split grade today. Probably a bit more work required but I got all the highlight detail out of the dog's white fur that I wanted. (The iphone scan doesn't do it much justice!).
It's an exquisite place to work, even if you are in the dark most of the time!
And the darkroom is up above a lovely cafe!
So I joined last week, and after an induction, started today. I have taken courses before with a friend who is an Ilford artisan partner, but the only real way to learn is to use and use and learn. It's a lot tougher than Lightroom, but the results are soo much better. Getting exposure right in camera seems to be the best starting point!
Tried some split grade today. Probably a bit more work required but I got all the highlight detail out of the dog's white fur that I wanted. (The iphone scan doesn't do it much justice!).
It's an exquisite place to work, even if you are in the dark most of the time!
And the darkroom is up above a lovely cafe!
tbhv55
Well-known
That's very interesting - thanks for posting this, Charles. While I've no inclination to take a whole course of lessons, I wouldn't mind an overview of the basics. I therefore Googled the community darkroom, and discovered that they offer what appears to be a one-evening "Introduction to Darkroom Printing".
I might just make enquiries about this, since I've never really done any darkroom printing... aside from a one-off occasion some forty years ago
, when I helped (hindered?) someone with some printing.CharlesDAMorgan
Veteran
It's great fun even if nothing more than a learning exercise. The first time you see the image appearing in the developer, then see the deep blacks and it's addictive.
Let me know if you do - Ryan at Fotonow handles the enquiries and I'm sure I can tack myself on. It would be good to say hello!
Let me know if you do - Ryan at Fotonow handles the enquiries and I'm sure I can tack myself on. It would be good to say hello!
Hari
Well-known
Been addicted to darkroom since first
at 8 or 9 in sunday school. Made an
enlarger out of old camera in 9th grade.
at 8 or 9 in sunday school. Made an
enlarger out of old camera in 9th grade.
