Courses & Workshops
FAQs - frequently asked questions
Is this the right course for me?
"Introduction to Black & White Photography" is ideal for anyone from absolute beginners who don't quite know what those knobs and numbers do, to those who would like to learn how to process and print their own black & white prints.
This course will teach you about camera functions, film and shutter speeds, choosing the correct type and speed of film, and working under different lighting conditions. The course will introduce you to the basics of film processing and printing techniques.
On completion of the course, you should be able to continue your photographic work independently, by becoming a Member and hiring the Gallery's darkrooms.
Do I need to have a camera before the course starts?
It is best to have a basic 35mm SLR camera. We do not recommend particular models, but you should try to get a camera with as many fully manual functions as possible, i.e. manual focus and manual exposure control.
You can wait until the course starts and ask your tutor for advice. (You can also try out the cameras your fellow students bring and hear their views on them).
How many places are on each course?
The small number of places (6) on the courses ensure a friendly and intimate environment ideal for anyone who wants to get to know their camera and to experience the magic of printing their own prints.
Each participant shares an enlarger with one other person. This ensures that you get plenty of hands-on experience while also giving you the opportunity to learn from your fellow students.
What do I need to bring?
Notes and guidelines will be available but you may find it useful to bring a pen and notebook. If you have a camera please bring it, if you don't own one and would like advice on what to get, the tutor will be happy to advise you.
In order to get off to a flying start, we recommend that participants bring with them:
An exposed roll of "Kodak TMax 400", shot on even the most basic point and shoot camera. Kodak TMax 400 is a traditional black and white 35mm film, suitable for traditional black and white processing. It is available in any good camera shop. Please do NOT buy film which, though giving black/white photographs, is processed as colour (Ilford XP3 or Kodak TMaxCN).
What do you supply?
The Gallery supplies all chemicals and equipment required for film processing and printing.
We also supply photographic paper for the first printing sessions of the course. As you learn more about printing, we recommend that you experiment with various types of paper.
How do I book a place?
In order to secure a place we advise that you book well in advance as places on this course are over subscribed. You can book by calling to the Gallery in person, or by VISA or Mastercard over the phone.
For further information on our range of courses or information on hiring the Gallery Darkrooms please contact Pete or Dan at (01) 671 4654/ 670 9293
Gallery of Photography
Meeting House Square
Temple Bar
Dublin 2
Ireland
The Gallery, Bookshop & Darkrooms are open Tuesdays through Saturdays, 11am - 6pm Sundays, 1-6pm.
t: +353 1 671 4654
t+f: +353 1 670 9293
Email Us
Staff
Director
Tanya Kiang
Education / Touring
Trish Lambe
Administrator / Digital Arts Manager
Daniel Scully
Bookshop Manager
Michael Lawlor
Darkrooms & Facilities Manager
Pete Smyth