With digital photography and modern technologies continually advancing, who would have thought that more and more photographers would be showing an interest in film photography? If you're just starting out, our ultimate guide to film photography is a great place to begin before setting up your darkroom.

While part of the charm of film photography is the thrill of the capture stage, much of the magic happens during processing and editing. That's why you should consider learning how to build a photography darkroom of your own. Let's find out what you need to know to get started.

Table of contents:

• What is a photography darkroom?
• Darkroom photography for beginners
  • Negative film processing
  • Photographic darkroom printing
• Must-have Photography Darkroom Equipment
  • Film processing equipment basics
  • Darkroom equipment basics
  • Safety Tips
• Shop Photography Darkroom Equipment at Novatech Direct

What is a photography darkroom?

If you went to high school a few decades ago, you are probably familiar with what a darkroom is and its basic functions. If you are of the younger generation, just know that it is far removed from the digital editing and printing process that you are familiar with. Whether you are looking to rediscover film photography or uncover its joy for the first time, a darkroom is where you finally get to see your hard work come to fruition - and it is honestly like magic!

Using a range of chemicals and equipment, your darkroom is a dedicated space to first process your exposed film to create negatives, and then expose these negatives on light-sensitive photographic paper, to produce beautiful black and white photographs.

Why is it called a darkroom? Quite simply, it is dark! Due to photographic paper being light-sensitive, exposing it to unwanted light will spoil it. So when you set up your darkroom, be prepared to block out light, and get used to working in the dark, using only photography darkroom lighting, otherwise known as safe lights, as your guide.

Darkroom photography for beginners

Analogue photography involves two separate chemical processes which take your images from their capture stage through to the finished product of a photographic print. Here is a description of the photography darkroom process, so we are on the same page:

Negative film processing:

This is where your photographic film is taken from its roll stage and runs through a series of chemicals. It comes out as a strip of negatives, which are ready to be exposed on photographic paper. A complete darkroom is not necessary for this step, but you will need a lightproof change bag to load your film up on the reels, as well as space for your chemicals and equipment.

The main type of film that you will be able to process at home is black and white negative film, with 35mm and 120 formats being the most popular. While there is a vast array of techniques and factors to be considered as you advance your film photography skills, basic black-and-white film development consists of this three-step chemical process:

• Developer: The key chemical that converts exposed silver halide crystals into metallic silver, forming the image. The developer that you choose can significantly affect contrast, grain, and overall image quality.
• Stop Bath: Neutralises the developer, preventing it from continuing to act on the film. It also helps remove the excess developer from the film's surface.
• Fixer: Dissolves any remaining unexposed silver halide crystals, making the image permanent and preventing further darkening.

Note: When processing your film, particular attention should be paid to the temperature of your chemicals To avoid common pitfalls at this stage, it's worth reading about the most common film photography mistakes beginners make., the length of time your film is exposed to each chemical, and the agitation, which is basically how much you move the reels as you process. The chemicals you purchase will come with guidelines based on the ISO of your film, so pay attention to this information.

Photographic darkroom printing:

In this step, your negatives are installed in a photographic enlarger, and exposed on paper. Just like in the negative processing stage, darkroom printing involves your exposed photographic paper running through a range of chemicals, which goes as follows:

• Developer: This chemical solution converts the exposure on the photographic paper into a visible image. It reduces silver halide crystals to metallic silver.
• Stop Bath: This solution neutralises the developer, preventing it from continuing to develop the image and causing unwanted staining.

• Fixer: This chemical dissolves any remaining undeveloped silver halide crystals, making the image permanent and resistant to light.
• Wash: This step removes all traces of chemicals from the paper, preventing fading and stains.

Must-have Photography Darkroom Equipment

So you think you want to try your hand at analogue photographic printing and need to know what film processing and darkroom equipment is necessary to get you started? Here is a basic list of items you will need, along with a description of their role.

Film processing equipment basics

• Thermometer - Chemical temperature is crucial for producing high-quality negatives for printing, so make sure you invest in a thermometer.
• Film opener & scissors - A film opener is required for opening film canisters and preparing your film for reels, while scissors are necessary for trimming the film.
• Change bag - If you haven't got your darkroom set up, a change bag allows you to set your film up on reels and into the developing tanks, without exposing it to light.
• Developing tanks & reels - A reel is used to safely and securely hold your film, so it can all receive an even amount of chemicals at all times during processing, while developing tanks are used to run the film through the various processes. There are different sizes of each available, which dictates whether they are suitable for 35mm or 120 film, and how many rolls you can process simultaneously.
• Large jugs - For handling the different chemicals, pick up a few sturdy 1-litre jugs.
• Film drying racks - After processing, film drying racks allow your negatives to dry safely, which avoids marks from contact, water spots and more.

Darkroom equipment basics

• Safelight - A safelight is used to illuminate the darkroom so you can see what you're doing without exposing the photographic paper.
• Filters - Filters sit in the enlarger to increase or decrease the contrast levels of your image.
• Enlarger - This device projects an image from a negative onto the photographic paper. The distance between the enlarger and the paper affects the size of the projected image.
• Negative carriers or sheets - Keep your negatives free from dust, dirt and fingerprints, for a higher-quality image.

• Timer - Keeping track of the length of time that your image is exposed on the photographic paper, is essential for achieving your desired exposure.
• Trays - Trays are for holding the chemicals needed in the darkroom process.
• Tongs - These are used to move your photographic paper from tray to tray, and they save you from getting your hands in harmful chemicals.
• Contact printing frame - A contact print shows you all of the images that you have captured on your roll of film, and helps you to identify the best negative for printing. A contact printing frame simplifies this process and makes it easier to pick out the best frame.

Bonus tip - safety first!

Working in the darkroom involves using numerous chemicals which can be damaging to your health if proper care isn't taken. Here are the proper safety steps that need to be followed.

• Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation to prevent the buildup of harmful fumes. Consider using a fan or opening windows.
• Protective Equipment: Wear gloves, an apron, and safety glasses when handling chemicals.
• Cleanliness: Keep your workspace clean and organised to prevent accidents.
• Emergency Kit: Have a first aid kit and an eyewash station readily available.

Shop Photography Darkroom Equipment at Novatech Direct

Browse our range of darkroom equipment and film photography supplies at Novatech Direct, or visit your local store for expert advice.

The darkroom is a fantastic, hands-on way to delve deeper into the magic of film photography. You'll gain a true appreciation for the craft and the unique results that film can produce. If the idea of a full darkroom setup seems daunting, don't worry! There are simpler ways to explore film, such as using disposable cameras or even simple pinhole cameras. Learn more about getting started with a disposable camera as an easy first step into film.

Follow our photography blog for more film photography guides and advice, from choosing the right film to digitising your film photos for online sharing. Our complete guide to digitising your photos covers everything you need to know to bring your film prints into the digital world.

Chemicals Used in Photography Darkrooms

Understanding the chemicals used in photography is essential before you begin developing film or printing photographs. The three core chemicals you'll need are:

• Developer: Activates the silver halide crystals on your film or photo paper to reveal the latent image.
• Stop Bath: An acidic solution that immediately halts the development process for consistent results.
• Fixer: Removes unexposed silver halides, making your image permanent and light-safe.

Always handle darkroom chemicals with care — use gloves, work in a ventilated space, and follow disposal guidelines. Many photographers also use a wetting agent as a final film rinse to reduce water spots during drying. Choosing the right chemistry for your film stock will significantly impact your final results.

Darkroom Equipment List: Everything You Need

If you're building your setup from scratch, use this darkroom equipment list as your starting checklist:

• Developing tank and reels
• Changing bag or changing tent
• Film developer, stop bath, and fixer chemicals
• Graduated measuring cylinders and mixing jugs
• Thermometer (chemical-safe)
• Enlarger and lens
• Easel and enlarging timer
• Safelight
• Chemical trays (at least three)
• Print tongs
• Drying rack or film clips

Beginners can start with a basic film processing kit before investing in a full printing setup. Prioritise quality on your developing tank and enlarger — these tools most directly affect your image quality.

Buying Darkroom Equipment in Australia

Finding quality darkroom equipment in Australia has historically been a challenge, but dedicated film photography retailers stock everything from starter kits to professional enlargers. When shopping for darkroom supplies in Australia, consider:

• Local availability: Buying locally means faster shipping and easier returns — important for fragile items like trays and timers.
• Chemical regulations: Some darkroom chemicals are classified as hazardous goods, so Australian-based retailers are best placed to handle compliant packaging and delivery.
• Starter bundles: Look for kits that combine a developing tank, chemicals, and a changing bag to reduce upfront costs.

Novatech Direct stocks a curated range of darkroom supplies and film photography accessories, with Australia-wide shipping and expert in-store advice available.