Installing a darkroom at home can reduce developing costs.
One of the most costly aspects of being a film photographer is developing the film. Sending it to a professional developer can be expensive, depending on the film you are using, not to mention you have less control over the final results. Not all of us have the space for a permanent darkroom with running water for the baths. If you have a closet, you can set up a temporary darkroom that allows you to develop small amounts of film. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Clear out all debris from the closet.
2. Unscrew the regular light bulb in the light socket and install a safe bulb with the wattage recommended on the film paper.
3. Locate the wall studs on the side of the closet, using a stud finder. Mark the location of the studs. Hold the metal standard that came with your shelving unit to the wall and mark the location of the top hole on the standard. Drill a 1/4-inch pilot hole, then hang the first standard. Hold a spirit level on top of the first standard so it is even, and mark the location of the bottom of the spirit level over the next wall stud. Drill a pilot hole for the second standard and hang it over the hole. Install a shelf on the standard at chest level.
4. Set up a small table in the corner of the closet for your enlarger. Drill a small hole through the wall, near the floor, and run an extension cord through it if there is not an electrical outlet in the closet. Cover any gap between the electrical cord and the hole. Plug in your enlarger.
5. Set up two containers, one for your developing chemicals and one for fresh water.
6. Step inside the closet and look for any signs of light. Cover the gaps before you begin working, using tape or black plastic.
Tags: first standard, mark location, pilot hole, spirit level, your enlarger
