Introduction to Black and White Photography

This course will introduce participants with the practice of black and white analogue photography. From camera handling, shooting and developing film and darkroom practice. The course is creative and experimental with assignments that will encourage you to expand and develop your practice.

The Cass School of Art and Design has two fully equipped professional darkrooms with a wide range of enlargers for both 35mm and medium format film.

Course aims and benefits:

Participants will learn how by manipulating light in a variety of different ways so they can produce a series of photograms. Other techniques such as dodging, toning, pre-flashing, split grading, paper sensitising and more specialist techniques will also be covered.

Topic will also include printing on resin coated as well as fibre based papers. Students will learn to recognise tones and textures and be expected to produce a set of high quality silver gelatin prints.

Participants will normally be expected to bring their own film cameras but some will be available from the department for use during class times. Workshop materials will be supplied and participants will be advised on appropriate materials to purchase for their work.

Students will learn the foundations of black and white photography through talks, demonstrations and practical workshops.

. Students will learn darkroom practices which include:

- The development of film
- The use of film scanners to create a digital file
- Contact printing