Darkroom Accessories

Darkroom accessories do anything from allowing a photographer to safely handle chemicals to the type of paper used to make an enlarged finished photograph. While some accessories may seem unnecessary the opposite is true. Each item brought into the darkroom provides a specific function.

Photography developing requires films, developing trays, paper and chemicals to do most of the work. Chemicals come in either powered or liquid form. Many photographers tend to use liquid rather than powered for the easy mixing without worry of powdered particles in the air, or stuck to the film. Matte, glossy, semi gloss, color, black and white are some of the photography papers available.

Whether a photographer takes black or white photos, or color, they will need to use paper specially treated to create enlarged photographs. Fotospeed, Ilford, Kentmere and Tetenal sell different sizes ranging between 4" x 6" up to 20" by 16" for black and white photo use. When purchasing black and white photo paper look for paper that produce deep blacks and differentiates between grey scale tones. Ilford, Kodak and Fuji are some photo companies that offer color photo paper. Heavy weight photo paper may cost more, but it is well worth it in the long run.

Use print tongs to safely handle the film and prints without worry of marring or touching chemicals. Choose from bamboo print tongs with rubber ends, plastic print tongs, or steel. Specially coated tweezers aid in moving film and paper. Photography shops sell plastic chemical mixers, some of which look like small fly swatters. Waterproof thermometers double as a stirring stick when needed.

Gloves are an important addition to a darkroom as they protect hands from harmful chemicals that could burn or irritate skin. An apron will keep spills and splashes from ruining clothing. Include a hook to hang the apron after use.

An auto load reel helps make film loading easier than manual. But both have their advantages. All film developing exposures require precise timing. Any timer will work.

Squeegees remove extra water from RC or fiber based prints to speed up drying times. A roller squeegee is used for glossy print papers using an older method. Cleaning supplies are as important as the accessories that help create photos and negatives. Use alcohol prep pads, absorbent bench pad covers, micro sonic cleaning solutions, ultra sonic cleaners and metal polish to help keep the area clean and free from dust.