Introduction to Darkroom Photography
Instructed by Laura Lair
Sundays, 12–3pm
January 17 - February 7, 2027
Registration Deadline: January 14, 2027
[ REGISTER HERE ]
Description:
Explore the fundamentals of black-and-white analog photography in this hands-on introductory course. You’ll learn essential skills, including basic camera operation, film processing, contact printing, and creating prints from enlarged negatives, while gaining a solid understanding of darkroom equipment, chemistry, and safety. Designed for both beginners and those looking to refresh their skills, this course provides a supportive, creative environment to build confidence and develop your photographic eye. Upon completion, you’ll have access to the Community Darkroom during Open Lab hours—no orientation needed—so you can continue experimenting and creating on your own.
In this course, students will be introduced to:
- Basic camera operations
- Black & white film processing
- Contact printing
- Black & white printing from enlarged negatives
- Darkroom equipment, chemistry, and safety procedures
Note: Students who complete this class will be qualified to use the Manifest Darkroom during Open Lab hours and will not need to complete an Orientation Session.
Materials List: (link to printable PDF)
Tuition: $230
Course fee includes black & white chemistry and FREE access to all Open Photography Labs during the duration of the course.
Class Size:
Minimum: 5
Maximum: 7
Level of Study: Beginner
No experience? No problem. Or, perhaps you're returning to art after a hiatus. Beginner-level courses are designed for individuals with little to no prior experience in making art. These courses focus on building confidence, developing foundational skills, and encouraging creative exploration.
Suggested Prerequisites: N/A
LOCATION: Unless otherwise specified, all courses are hosted at Manifest's new facility at 'M1' in Clifton at 3464 Central Parkway (see map and directions below). Manifest's new facility provides multiple studio classrooms, private lesson space, a darkroom, a film processing room, a state of the art printmaking wing, and a multi-purpose lecture and class meeting space as well as on-site parking, grounds, and exterior spaces in which to relax, discuss, and make art. The studios are outfitted with professional equipment, furniture, and study aids.
Map to Manifest's M1 Studios | Studio Calendar | Darkroom Calendar
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About the Instructor
Laura Lair was drawn to photography at a young age and enjoys using it to document everyday moments of her life and mark the passage of time. Laura found Manifest’s Community Darkroom in 2017 and rediscovered the joy of shooting film and working in a darkroom. She has been a member of Manifest’s Darkroom Community ever since.
Laura’s professional background is in environmental science and natural resource management. She currently works with the City of Cincinnati on composting and food waste reduction initiatives.
When she’s not building composters or making prints in the darkroom, Laura likes to squeeze in outings on the Little Miami River and Loveland bike trail with her family.
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