How to Locate a Home Darkroom

A home darkroom can be an elaborate, dedicated space or can be a bathroom, converted either permanently or when needed.

Difficulty: Moderately challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Blackout Materials
• Counters
• Shelves
• Air Conditioners
• Bath Exhaust Fans
• Workbenches

1. Find a room that can be made light-tight, but that will also remain well-ventilated.

2. Choose a room large enough to accommodate two benches or counters for dry and wet processing stages.

3. Make sure the room has a sink and enough electricity to power an enlarger and a safe light. For more informal printing, a bathroom can be made into a makeshift darkroom.

4. Designate areas for each of the steps, including film development, printing and print drying. Try to position wet and dry areas on opposite sides of the room.

Tips & Warnings

• If the room does not have a sink and one cannot be installed, keep a large tray of water in the room to put prints in, and wash them in a sink after you are finished printing.
• A darkroom should maintain a comfortable temperature. An air conditioner might be a necessity.
• Proper ventilation is essential when working with chemicals.