The Silver Print: The Art of Black & White Printing
About this Event
The Silver Print: The Art of Black & White Printing
A Two Day Darkroom Workshop with Daniel T Wheeler
Explore the joys of the silver print.
Join photographer, printer and educator Daniel T Wheeler for an intensive two day workshop exploring the craft of making beautiful black and white silver gelatin prints in the darkroom.
Developed from Daniel's many years of teaching alongside renowned photographer and darkroom practitioner John Blakemore, this workshop offers a rare opportunity to learn the philosophy, techniques and approach to printing that John shared with generations of photographers. Rather than simply teaching darkroom processes, the weekend focuses on developing a thoughtful, considered printing practice, one that values observation, craftsmanship and the expressive possibilities of the silver print.
With only five participants, this workshop offers plenty of individual guidance and support, allowing you to work at your own pace while receiving one to one tuition throughout the weekend.
Whether you are looking to refine your existing printing skills or deepen your understanding of black and white photography, this workshop will give you the confidence, knowledge and techniques to produce prints of the highest quality.
Day One
The first day begins with an opportunity to explore Daniel's extensive archive of black and white prints. This includes original prints by John, alongside prints by Daniel and a selection of work made by John's former students.
Together you will discuss print quality, tonality and the remarkable malleability of photographic paper. The workshop will also demystify the often dreaded Zone System, exploring how exposure, negative development and careful negative assessment influence the final print.
After lunch, Daniel will demonstrate a range of darkroom printing techniques before spending the afternoon looking through your own negatives and existing prints. Together, you will identify your strongest images, discuss your intentions for each photograph and prepare a printing plan for the following day.
The day concludes with everyone being assigned an enlarger and getting the darkroom set up, ready for a full day of printing.
Day Two
Today we print.
The second day is dedicated entirely to printing from your own negatives, with individual guidance and one to one tuition throughout.
Rather than producing large numbers of prints, this workshop encourages a slower and more considered approach to darkroom practice. You will be encouraged to explore print tonality, refine your technique and discover the expressive possibilities within each negative.
You may find yourself working with only one to three negatives throughout the day, but the aim is not quantity. The aim is to produce master prints, prints that realise the full potential of your photographs.
The workshop concludes with an introduction to simple archival toning techniques, followed by a demonstration of traditional hand spotting.
What to Bring
Please bring a selection of your own developed black and white negatives.
A selection of photographic paper is included within the workshop fee. Additional paper will be available to purchase if required, although you are very welcome to bring your own preferred papers.
If you are unsure whether your negatives are suitable, please get in touch before the workshop and we will be happy to advise.
Who is this workshop for?
This workshop is suitable for anyone interested in improving their black and white darkroom printing, from enthusiastic beginners to experienced printers looking to refine their practice.
Some previous experience of shooting film or using a darkroom is recommended to get the most from the weekend. We have taught complete beginners before, so it is certainly possible, just expect the learning curve to be a little steeper.
Important Information
- The workshop is limited to five participants, ensuring plenty of individual tuition throughout the weekend.
- A minimum of three bookings is required for the workshop to run.
- If we need to cancel or postpone the workshop for any reason, participants will be offered an alternative date or a full refund.
- Tea and coffee will be available throughout the weekend. Lunch is not included.
- Please arrive 10 to 15 minutes before the advertised start time.
- Traditional black and white photographic chemistry will be used throughout the workshop. Full safety guidance will be provided, and appropriate protective equipment is available.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations made more than 14 days before the workshop will receive a full refund.
Unfortunately, cancellations made within 14 days of the workshop are non refundable unless we are able to fill your place from the waiting list.
If Sequence is required to cancel the workshop, all participants will be offered either an alternative date or a full refund.
Accessibility
Sequence is based within Backlit Studios, a beautifully restored former factory building dating back almost 200 years.
Our darkroom is wheelchair accessible with some temporary modifications to the entrance. However, due to the nature of the historic building, some areas are not fully accessible for all wheelchair users or those with certain mobility requirements.
Accessible toilets are located two floors above the studio and can be reached via either a lift or stairs.
If you have any questions about accessibility or would like to discuss your individual requirements before booking, please don't hesitate to get in touch.
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
GBP 250.00
