Tab Article

Ratings: ★★★★☆ (4.2/5)
Genre: Photography, Darkroom Techniques, Black & White Printing

Book Review:
Roger Hicks and Frances Schultz's ''Darkroom Basics ... and beyond'' is a welcoming guide to the magical world of darkroom printing. For photographers who have only experienced digital imaging, or who want to return to traditional methods, this book demystifies the process and makes it accessible.

The book's greatest strength is its clarity. The authors promise a ''jargon-free'' approach and deliver. Complex processes are broken down into understandable steps, with clear diagrams and specially commissioned photographs showing exactly what to do. The troubleshooting sections are particularly valuable, helping beginners avoid common mistakes and recover when things go wrong.

The progression from basics to ''beyond'' is well-structured. Beginners can follow the step-by-step introduction and successfully make their first black-and-white prints. More experienced darkroom workers will find value in the afterwork section, which covers advanced techniques like bleaching, toning, spotting, and retouching. These finishing techniques separate good prints from great ones.

For Sri Lankan photographers, this book offers a pathway into traditional darkroom work. While digital dominates, understanding darkroom techniques deepens one's understanding of photography fundamentally. The principles of exposure, contrast, and dodging and burning learned in the darkroom apply to digital work as well.

Collins & Brown's production quality is good—clear printing, durable binding.

The main limitation is its focus on black-and-white printing. Color darkroom work requires different techniques and equipment. But for black and white, it's comprehensive.

Overall, ''Darkroom Basics ... and beyond'' is an excellent introduction to traditional darkroom printing. Its clear instruction, practical approach, and coverage of both fundamentals and advanced techniques make it valuable for photographers at all levels. Recommended for anyone wanting to experience the magic of watching images emerge in the developing tray.