Some time ago, I (re-)started my analogue photography, using analogue black and white film, then developing it, finally scanning it. Since some months, I have re-started the darkroom part of the process as well.
Using diverse enlargers in my photography club, 120 medium format and 135 standard film negatives come to life by using light and chemicals – in a process that takes much longer than the digital variance.
I have to say – I really enjoy this process. It helps me winding down, focussing on one thing at a time and not being distracted by so many options.
From the development of the film in a tank (one is always surprised which pictures are on it – I usually forget at least 50% of the pictures that I made) to the adjustment, gradation picking on the enlarger and the subsequent development – everything is slow, focussed, and it is more difficult to get results.
But the results appear to be more rewarding – not necessarily „better“, but different – I can relate more to them, I look at these pictures more often – and I can not really say „why?“ that is.
I believe there are more wonders to it, because I can not control every aspect of the process (well – I could of course – with significant more effort) – that leaves some things to chance. Other than digital, I have no whatsoever direct control whilst making the picture. There is always the element of surprise.
And the first time I have the negative in the enlarger is the first time that I see the picture, weeks after it was made. An this is where I start to interpret – how did it look like? Does the picture actually work? How was the contrast? How should it look like to be interesting? The original moment is long gone by then … it‘s all about interpretation and actual re-work of the moment.
This is why I may have the feeling that there is more of myself in the picture than when I shoot digital … but it’s just a feeling , an interpretation.
I have chosen analogue again almost two years ago and so far, it has been an interesting and rewarding journey.
I am curious what lies ahead – I will keep you posted …
Here the latest results, light-printed on Ilford Art 300 paper:
