Experimental Darkroom Photography: Plant-Based Development and Alternative Processes

Course overview

 

An Intermediate 6-Week Workshop 

Discover the fascinating world of plant-based photography and alternative darkroom processes. In this hands-on workshop, you’ll learn to create unique images using organic materials and household ingredients, exploring the intersection of nature, chemistry, and photographic art. 

There will be 6 weeks of intensive hands-on learning, with each session building upon previous techniques and experiments.

Tutor Georgia Ringrose is a photographer whose practice centres on photography’s historical roots and experimental processes. Her work explores early photographic techniques, bringing them into a contemporary context through darkroom experimentation and alternative development methods. 

 Prerequisites:

  • Your own 35mm analog camera (disposable cameras not suitable)
  • Basic darkroom experience is required

You will learn to: 

  • create photographic developers using plant matter (spinach, rosemary, turmeric, beetroot) 
  • develop film using alternative processes, including coffee development 
  • master the chemigram process and film soup techniques 
  • craft darkroom chemicals from natural and household materials 
  • experiment with unique development techniques 

 

Chemical Components 

We’ll work with natural and household materials including: 

  • Plant extracts 
  • Vitamin C 
  • Borax 
  • Distilled water 
  • Vinegar 
  • Washing soda/bicarbonate of soda 

This immersive course emphasises practical, hands-on learning. Each session combines: 

  • detailed demonstrations of alternative processes 
  • guided hands-on practice 
  • individual experimentation time 
  • technical discussion and creative exploration 

Important Note: 

  • All safety protocols for chemical handling will be covered 
  • Participants are encouraged to document their experiments

 You will need to bring along:

  • 35mm analog camera (disposable cameras not suitable)
  • additional film rolls if desired. You will be provided with x1 roll of 35mm film. You have the option to shoot more, but you must provide your extra film
  • a notebook for process documentation 

Georgia will be happy to guide you towards your next steps on your creative journey.

Course Starts in 233 Days

Sat 8 November 2025

Enrol now

Enrol now

Alternatively enrol by phone quoting OXLLL65DA

Meet the tutors

We want our learners to feel welcome, safe and at ease when attending our classes, especially if this is your first time attending an adult education class or if you're coming back to education after a break.
If you're interested in one of courses, meet our tutors first! You'll see they have similar passions and interests and, most importantly, the right qualifications to help you make the most of your time and money.

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