How to: D.I.Y. Darkroom w/ Francisco Gutierrez

Film photography, though incredibly rewarding, can be a costly pursuit—especially in a city like New York. Whether you're a weekend enthusiast, a seasoned hobbyist, or a professional artist, the expenses can quickly add up, with costs for film rolls, development, and printing services putting a strain on the wallet. Francisco Gutiérrez, a Brooklyn-based entrepreneur and artist, knows this challenge all too well.

Francisco has found a way to balance the financial demands of his craft while maintaining his creative integrity. By building his own apartment-friendly darkroom, he has been able to develop, scan, and print (or "expose") his own negatives every day—without compromising on quality. This hands-on approach not only saves him money but also gives him full control over his process, allowing him to work independently and efficiently, while producing the high-caliber results his work demands.

As a passionate artist and business owner, Francisco is eager to share the knowledge he’s gained through his DIY methods. He sees a real opportunity to help fellow local artists who are eager to take control of their own film photography processes but may not know where to start. By teaching others how to set up their own affordable darkrooms and showing them how to develop, scan, and print their work in a cost-effective manner, Francisco hopes to empower his peers to push their creative boundaries without the financial burden that often comes with outsourcing. His goal is to provide accessible techniques that can help artists continue to create and grow their work, all while keeping their expenses in check.

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