From Camera to Darkroom: Learn to Photograph, Develop and Print
In this small-scale slow photography course at Studio Rik Versteeg in Rotterdam, you’ll learn not only how to work in the darkroom, but also the fundamentals of analogue photography. From taking your first analogue portrait in the photo studio to developing and printing your own work, you’ll experience the entire analogue process from start to finish.
You’ll work in a small group of no more than three participants, allowing plenty of room for personal guidance and individual attention to your creative development.
During the course, participants photograph each other. This gives you the opportunity to learn not only the technical aspects of photography, but also how to work with light, a light meter, ISO settings, aperture, composition and portraiture.
Between sessions, there’s time to take a break together and exchange experiences. A catered lunch is included.
What will you learn?
- The fundamentals of studio photography, including camera settings, composition and exposure
- Working with an analogue Hasselblad camera
- Photographing each other through portraiture and experimentation
- The opportunity to observe the development of 120 film in the darkroom
- Working in the darkroom
- Making prints using an enlarger
- Working with contrast, test strips and image selection
Course structure
The course combines analogue photography in the studio with hands-on darkroom work:
- Introduction to photography and camera settings
- A photo session in which participants photograph each other
- An introduction to film development
- Learning to work independently in the darkroom
- Making prints from your own photographs
- A shared lunch and time for reflection
- Personal feedback and individual guidance
Who is this course for?
- Beginners who want to explore analogue photography
- Creatives who want to learn more about portrait photography
- Photographers looking to deepen their understanding of the photographic process
- Anyone interested in working in a darkroom in Rotterdam
Practical information
- Location: Studio Rik Versteeg, Rotterdam
- Group size: Maximum of 4 participants
- Included: Introduction, personal guidance and lunch
- Photography: Black and white only
- Materials: All necessary materials are included
Sign up
Would you like to experience the full magic of analogue photography? Sign up and discover how your images come to life — from camera to print.
Event venue
Doka Rotterdam, Hildegardisstraat 15, 3036NS, Rotterdam, Netherlands
Concerts, fests, parties, meetups — all the happenings, one place.