2-Day Workshop: Intro to Large Format Photography

Join photographer Michael Kamber at the Bronx Documentary Center for a two-day large format photography workshop. This class will cover basic usage of the 4×5 camera, the processing of negatives, and printing of 8x10 silver gelatin prints in the darkroom.

Across two Saturday sessions, students will build on their film photography skills and explore the detail and deliberate approach that make large format photography distinctive. Following each classroom session, students will have two hours of additional access to the BDC’s state-of-the-art darkroom to continue practicing.

What You Will Learn

• Operation of large format camera: Set up, compose, focus, and expose photographs using a 4×5 camera.
• Tripod operation: How to set up and adjust your tripod for maximum effectiveness.
• Processing negatives: Learn how to develop exposed black-and-white sheet film.
• Darkroom printing: Work from negatives to create photographic prints.

Workshop Details

Dates: Saturdays, November 7 & 14, 2026
Time: 10 AM–2 PM each day
Instructor: Michael Kamber
Cost: $250 per student
Class size: Limited to 10 participants

Experience Required

This workshop assumes a foundational knowledge of manual exposure and film photography.

Equipment & Materials

The BDC will provide 4×5 cameras and the necessary equipment for in-class use. Students must bring their own 25-sheet box of Ilford HP5 Plus 4×5 black-and-white film. Film is not included in the workshop fee.

Each student will be allocated 10 sheets of 8x10 paper for darkroom printing. Students can bring their own paper or purchase additional sheets from the BDC.

Additional Darkroom Benefits

• 35% off Saturday afternoon darkroom rentals following class.
• $100 credit toward darkroom hours after the workshop.

About the Instructor

Michael Kamber has worked as a photojournalist and editor for more than 30 years, contributing to The New York Times and other leading international publications. He has been shooting, developing, and printing black-and-white film since the 1970s. He is the Founder and Creative Director of the Bronx Documentary Center.

With just 10 places available, reserve your spot and take your film photography from camera to darkroom.

Questions? Contact mike@bronxdoc.org.