This is the first in a 3 part Series

The Gelatin Silver Print

Through lecture, demonstrations, and hands-on experience, the student will learn important darkroom procedures and techniques in print developing and processing. Other topics covered in this workshop will include local and global contrast control, filtrations, dodging and burning, as well as local print reduction and highlight enhancement, toning, and print presentation. Each student will be assigned an enlarger and will make prints from their own negatives under the supervision of the instructor.

Day one will begin with an introduction of the instructor and a presentation of his work and fine prints from his personal collection. Then it will continue with lectures and darkroom demonstration, student print and negative evaluations, and orientation in preparation for the following day’s darkroom use. If time permits, students will begin printing.

On day two, the instructor will assist students as they print their own negatives, making suggestions to improve the quality of their work. There will also be demonstrations on local print enhancement, toning, and print presentation.

Requirements:

This workshop is for those who have some previous darkroom experience with gelatin silver print and who are interested in furthering their skills and knowledge in the creation of fine prints.

The student is to bring a personal portfolio of 6 to 8 prints, including negatives, for evaluation and printing, as well as any burning and dodging tools they already have. Paper and chemistry will be furnished.

Cost:$375

About the Instructor

Robert G. Smith, also known as Bob, holds a BA and an MS in photography. He has been on faculty at Brooks Institute since 1974 teaching advertising photography as well as an advanced black and white class called the Zone System. Prior to 1974, he worked as a professional photographer doing commercial, advertising, and portrait photography primarily in the Los Angeles area. He has worked for such clients as Paramount Records, Liberty Records, Sunkist, Union Bank, Vivitar, and many others. His photographs are included in several private, corporate, and museum collections.