In the darkroom tonight
Darkroom
I’m heading down to the basement to work in the darkroom - first time since I’ve been back.
First Class
They weren’t kidding when they said “open darkroom.” The class I’m taking is completely unstructured. Not that it’s a bad thing, but I think I’m the only person who has never used this particular darkroom before. But I’m not shy. I asked where to find stuff and jumped in. When things didn’t work out, I got help. Once I’m acclimated, I think there’s a lot to learn from this group as well as the instructor.
Also: being at the Smithsonian every week is going to be fantastic!
After class I met up with a friend from college. We probably hadn’t seen each other in 17 years. Other than me completely wilting in the DC heat (and sweating like … well, let’s just go with “it wasn’t pretty”), it was awesome to catch up and reconnect.
First print in my very own darkroom! Just a snapshot of my awesome Nana.
Is it ironic that I took a photo of my first print with my phone?
Thank you, Craigslist!
The back of my Forester is FULL of darkroom supplies, including:
2 enlargers - ones has negative carriers for medium format as well as 35mm
2 timers
trays of various sizes
Hewes reels (score!)
3 tanks
chemistry and a bunch of photo paper that may or may not be good
tongs
loupes
2 of those things to check the focus
safe lights (I think 3)
and a bunch of other stuff. I am happy, happy, happy! Now to get the basement set up…
A Darkroom of One’s Own
I just talked to a guy who is going to sell me everything in his darkroom. Enlarger, timer, trays, easels, the whole shebang. And for not a whole lot of money. I’m excited!
