PhotoSynthesis offers workshops in a variety of photographic disciplines, with an emphasis on historical processes. Most of our workshops are capped at six participants, so you can be sure to have the best learning experience possible. PhotoSynthesis Classic Members receive a 10% discount on all workshops and Burnside Darkroom Collective Members receive a 15% discount. Please consult our membership page for more information.
For those who prefer one-on-one instruction, please contact us to arrange for private sessions. Pricing details for Tutoring & Consultation can be found here.
Please consult our Workshops Policy.
Upcoming Workshops
Matte Albumen: February 3 & 4, 2024: 10am–5pm
Albumen, a printing process from the mid-1800s, was the first commercially viable photographic printing process. The process uses paper coated with an egg white solution and UV light in concert with a photographic negative to create a brown-toned image. In this workshop, we will explore a modern variation of the original Albumen process to create photographs that have a vintage appearance.
Basics of the B&W Darkroom: February 17 & 18, 2024: 10am–4pm
Many of us spend a good portion of our day staring at a computer monitor, whether it be for work or for fun. The darkroom can be a peaceful, relaxing, magical retreat from that. We’re condensing the guts of a semester-long darkroom intro course into one fun-filled weekend.
Digital Negative Curve Demonstration: April 12, 2024: 5:30–7:30pm
This is a recommended but optional demonstration for Ziatype workshop participants. People not enrolled in the Ziatype workshop who would like to learn the steps for creating a dedicated curve to use in conjunction with alternative processes are also welcome.
Ziatype: April 13, 2024: 10am–4pm
Ziatype, a modern alt process perfected in 1980 by Richard Sullivan, uses hand-painted emulsion and UV light to create a photographic image. The Ziatype process uses the “noble metal” palladium resulting in archival prints that yield a tonal range greater than traditional black and white papers. Additionally, Ziatype chemistry can be adjusted to create varying hues from warm brown-black to cool grey-violet.
Photography on a Shoestring: May 18, 2024: 9am–5pm
In this workshop, we will explore film photography on a shoestring budget. Participants will learn how to build a large format camera out of household materials and how to process film using kitchen ingredients. We will also discuss options for printing negatives that do not require a formal photo lab. At the conclusion of this workshop, students will come away with a handmade camera and an understanding of how to process and print analog photographs on a budget.
Photographic Processes in Nature (on Location): June 1, 2024: 10am–4pm
This workshop is for photographers of all levels who are interested in using objects from nature and basic photographic materials to create cameraless photographic images that are a reflection of the environment in which they were made.
An Evening of Encaustics — Summer Solstice Celebration: Thursday, June 20, 2024: 5–9pm
Come celebrate the Summer Solstice with a social evening of cocktails and art!