Negatives in the Dark

Preserving the Craft of Darkroom Photography

Photography Before the Digital Age

Before digital cameras and smartphones, photographs were created using light-sensitive film. After a photograph was taken, the film held a hidden or “latent” image that had to be developed using chemistry.

This process took place in a darkroom — a space where light is carefully controlled. The prints in this exhibition were created using traditional darkroom techniques.

  • The camera records light onto photographic film.
  • The film contains a hidden image that cannot yet be seen.
  • Chemicals reveal and stabilize the photograph.
  • The final print is made by projecting the negative onto photographic paper.
Diagram: Camera → Film → Negative → Print
Camera → Film → Negative → Print
Film negatives hanging to dry
Film negatives drying
Print appearing in developer tray
Print appearing in developer tray

Step 1 — Developing the Film

Developer

The film is immersed in developer, revealing the latent image.

Stop Bath

A brief acid bath halts development.

Fixer

Fixer stabilizes the image and removes unexposed silver.

Washing & Drying

Negatives are washed and hung to dry, producing the final film strip.

Step 2 — Making the Print

Exposure

The negative is projected onto photographic paper using the enlarger.

Developer Tray

The image appears as the paper is developed.

Stop Bath

Stops the development process to control contrast.

Fixer

Fixer stabilizes the print for handling and display.

A Handmade Photograph

  • Each print is made by hand.
  • Test prints refine exposure and contrast.
  • Subtle adjustments can be made during printing.
  • The final photograph is a physical object, not just a digital file.