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Home Training and Support Other How To's... Set up a Darkroom
How to Set up a darkroom PDF Print E-mail

 Setting up a Darkroom

 
 
While this may seem daunting at first, the reality is quite straightforward. Let's divide your needs into two parts; film processing and printing. Some of the items you will need are duplicated in each part and within each section there are some items which are essential and some that can go on to the wish list for purchase as your budget allows.
 
Film Processing. You will need:-
  • Developing tank & reel
  • Thermometer
  • Dark bag/changing bag (This allows you to load your film into the tank without the need of a darkroom. If your darkroom is only truly dark at night, you can process your films while the sun is still up.)
  • Film clips
  • Film Wiper
  • Measuring beakers / mixing containers
  • Film Developer
  • Stop Bath
  • Fixer
  • Wetting Agent
A Tip:-
When the film is fresh out of the tank after washing the emulsion has swelled and is very fragile. At this stage, dust is your biggest enemy. Your shower stall is a good place to hang your film to dry. Before you hang your film there, run the hot water for a minute. The steam will collect any air-borne dust. When the steam has dissipated your film should be safe to hang to dry. Shut the shower door or pull the curtain closed to prevent any rogue dust settling on your film.
 
Printing. You'll need:-
  • Enlarger
  • Easel Mask
  • Safe Light
  • 3 Trays
  • 3 Tongs
  • Process Timer
  • Multigrade Filters
  • Thermometer
  • Photo Paper
  • Paper Developer
  • Stop Bath
  • Fixer
  • Enlarger Timer
  • Washing Facilities
  • Measuring beakers
A Tip :-
While it's great to have a purpose designed darkroom, most home darkrooms are bathrooms or laundries that only come out at night. All you really need is darkness, bench space, power and water (and an understanding family).

For more information and prices for the items you'll need to set up your own darkroom, contact us by phone, e-mail or pop in to speak to us and keep an eye on the web page for more hints and tips.
We look forward to sharing our love of photography with you and know that soon you'll be hooked, like us.
 
 
Last Updated ( Friday, 30 November 2007 13:50 )
 
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