This workshop offers an introduction to 4x5 and 8x10 field cameras, with a focus on shooting darkroom paper negatives and the basics of tray-processing black and white silver gelatin paper. Participants will learn the fundamentals of working with large format cameras before photographing portraits and objects in the studio or outdoors depending on the weather.
Paper negatives can be digitized to obtain a positive image or contact printed in the darkroom. Participants will leave with a minimum of two paper negatives.
A basic understanding of how shutter speed, ISO and aperture work together to control exposure (sometimes called The Exposure Triangle) is recommended. Participants will focus on photographing portraits and objects in the studio or outdoors. Props or costumes are welcome for portraits, as are interesting objects for those who prefer to shoot still life.
S/M/L: An Introduction to Analogue Camera Formats
(Course Description)
Course fee: $500 (members) / $550 (non-members)
Explore the fundamentals of three analogue camera formats through this hands-on workshop series. Over three sessions, participants will be introduced to 35mm, medium format and large format photography, learning how to use each camera system, shooting black and white film or paper negatives, and processing their negatives (in the darkroom). Designed for photographers of all levels, this series offers an accessible introduction to the distinct possibilities of working with different analogue formats.
Clare Samuel (she/her) is a visual artist originally from Northern Ireland, now living in Toronto. She holds a BFA from Toronto Metropolitan University and an MFA from Concordia University. Spanning photography, video and installation, her work is often a dialogue with the idea of portraiture. She has exhibited internationally including recently at OBORO, VU Photo, Gallery TPW and PAVED Arts. Clare’s practice has been supported by Canada Council for the Arts, Ontario Arts Council, and Toronto Arts Council. She is co-founder and co-director of Feminist Photography Network, a nexus for research on the relationship between feminism and lens-based media.
