When I learned that my college offered an introductory photography class that focused specifically on film photography, I was ecstatic. Since the age of 13, I have been obsessed with photography, and I would rummage through thrift stores to find any camera I could get my hands on. My adoration of this art form has only grown, and I am never without a camera in my hand. Prior to this course, however, I had not once set foot inside of a darkroom. I never could have imagined that a red lit room that reeked of a musty vinegar would change my ways of thinking so drastically.
1. Great things take time.
While it may sound incredibly cliche, it's the absolute truth when it comes to creating art in a darkroom. This is the one place where you cannot rush the process or only put in half of your energy. Chemicals need to be agitated at a certain time, and your print should be exposed for a set number of seconds. Attempting to speed up the process could completely destroy the images you carefully constructed.
2. It's OK to get away from your phone.
The little light from your iPhone can completely destroy your prints so you are forced to keep it out of the room. At first this proves to be a difficult task, but in time you realize that it's the refresher you always needed. No longer focused on Facebook posts or Instagram images, you can think about yourself and the art you are creating. It's the mental break you didn't realize you needed.
3. Darkness isn't something to fear.
At first it may seem strange to remove your film from its canister in a pitch black room. Once the film is finally freed, you find yourself struggling to put the film in the reel. You become enraged that you are forced to do this in the dark, but once it's on, a brilliant grin traces your face. The dark is a place of power, there is nothing to fear.
4. Photography is not as easy as it seems.
Anyone can take a good Instagram photo, but the darkroom is not for the weak hearted. In film photography, there is no such thing as autofocus or even an auto mode. While a film camera may say it has that function, you know you cannot rely on it. In order to achieve a perfect image, you have to pay great attention to light in both the shooting and editing process.
5. You are an artist.
The very first time you look at your completed print, your heart will nearly collapse. You have just created this beautiful work of art with both your hands and your mind. Be it perfect or flawed, it is yours. Be proud of this wondrous photograph you have just produced. Now go grab a new roll of film, and keep on shooting!
