How to Locate a Home Darkroom

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By eHow Contributing Writer

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

Difficulty: Moderately challenging

Instructions

Step 1

Find a room that can be made light-tight, but that will also remain well-ventilated.
Step 2

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