The Darkroom
From Exposed Film to Finished Print
Everything for working in the darkroom — film development, traditional printing, and alternative processes. Tools, techniques, and chemistry all in one place.
Film Development
Process your own film — B&W, C-41, and E-6. Start with the basics and progress to advanced techniques.
Black & White Film Development at Home
beginner · 15 min read
Stand Development
intermediate · 8 min read
Push Processing Explained
intermediate · 10 min read
C-41 Colour Film Development at Home
intermediate · 12 min read
Pull Processing Explained
intermediate · 8 min read
E-6 Slide Film Development at Home
advanced · 15 min read
Alternative Processes
Historic and handmade printing processes — cyanotype, platinum/palladium, gum bichromate, and more.
Cyanotype
iron based · beginner
Distinctive Prussian blue colour; permanent when properly processed; self-masking highlights
Van Dyke Brown
iron based · beginner
Warm brown tones on cream base; printing-out process with visible image during exposure; soft highlight rendering
Kallitype
iron based · intermediate
Brown tones that can be shifted through developer and toner choice; excellent tonal range and high Dmax
Platinum/Palladium
noble metal · advanced
Exceptional tonal range; matte surface with image embedded in paper fibres; neutral grey to warm brown tones; extreme archival permanence
Salt Printing
silver · beginner
Soft, matte appearance; warm brown to red-brown tones; image visible in paper fibres; delicate highlight rendering
Carbon Transfer
colloid · advanced
Exceptional permanence; rich blacks; visible relief in shadows; any colour possible through pigment choice; matte to semi-gloss surface
New to the Darkroom?
Start with our beginner's guide to B&W development. You can process your first roll with basic equipment and chemistry for under £50.
Start here: B&W Development at Home