Darkroom project

Select a B/W negative to use for all the prints.

Make a 'guide' print to the best of your ability using resin coated paper, processed through the machine in the college darkroom.

Select two different types of silver halide-based photographic paper.

Make a ‘fine print’ using each of the papers, processed by hand through dishes. The college provides Dektol developer. Others are available. You may wish to try an alternative.

Follow the permanent links on the right to Silverprint, Fotospeed, Kentmere, Kodak, Calumet and 7 day shop. Do a deal with your classmates and split the costs.

Keep all your test strips and work prints. Make notes on your observations about the quality and tonality of the print on resin-coated paper compared to the prints on fibre-based paper.

You should see differences in the depth of blacks and the brightness of whites. Tonal separation may be more pronounced. Images may be warm-tone, verging on sepia, or cool tone – appearing almost blue. The possibilities of paper and developer combinations are almost endless. Photographers search for something that they think works best for them.

Present your two ‘fine prints’ window mounted for wall display.

Deadline: Monday 17th March