Programs/

Photo Lab

Factory Works
Photo Lab

The Factory Works Photo Lab is a black and white film and alternative processes studio located on the 2nd floor of the Pajama Factory in studio 9-206. We are committed to advocacy and education for traditional analog photography and experimental practices that build bridges between 19th-century antiquarian techniques and 21st-century technology.

Large Format Printing

Large format archival inkjet printing is available, up to 44 inches full bleed on the smallest side, on Epson Ultra Premium Photo Paper Luster, using our Epson Stylus Pro 9800 Printer. All files should be sized at the desired print size and 300 dpi.

As part of our education and advocacy-driven mission, the Photo Lab actively welcomes partnerships with groups doing direct work with populations within our community whose programming would benefit from adding creativity for their participants. Learning traditional darkroom photography offers numerous benefits, such as cultivating patience, fostering deliberate decision-making, and encouraging one to see their vantage point and thus recognize their experiences as valued. Organizations interested in collaboration can contact us using the form provided below.

Who We Want To
Work With

  • Non-profits whose constituencies would benefit from creative empowerment.
  • Youth groups interested in learning about historic processes.
  • Professionals photographers looking to expand their skills.
  • Digital photographers looking to learn about film and darkroom photography
  • People who studied photography in school but haven’t picked up a camera since.
  • Students wanting to learn more about film photography.
  • Creative people interested in learning a new art form.
  • People looking to be a part of a community of like-minded folks.

Get More Info

    Full Name*

    Email*

    Telephone*

    Organization or Group Name

    Why do you want to work with us?

    General InformationGroup ActivityOther

    Explain why you want to work with us.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Do I need a camera?

    No, we have cameras available to use for classes and workshops, if you have your own you’re free to use it if you’d like.

    Do I need to have any darkroom experience?

    Absolutely not, our classes and workshops are designed for everyone from experienced professionals interested in sharing their passion with others to those who have never used a camera before, film or digital.

    Are the chemicals toxic?

    Although every individual has their own sensitivities the chemicals we use are not dangerous unless swallowed. We have a top of the line ventilation system running 24/7 and we take the handling of that chemistry very seriously. That said, if you do experience any sensitivity issues we encourage you to take breaks from being in the darkroom and we also have gloves and protective masks available for anyone who’d like to use them.

    What supplies do I need to purchase before attending?

    For our single day workshops we provide most everything you will need including all paper and chemistry. For our Intro to the Darkroom class you only need purchase a single roll of 400 iso 24 exposure Ilford 35mm black and white film which can be purchased from Hoyer’s Photo on Washington Blvd, mention that you’re taking our class for a discount on your film and to ensure you buy the right on.

    What classes and workshops do you offer?

    We offer semi regular 4 week introductory classes as well as one of workshops focused on things like cyanotypes, digital negatives, large format photography and alternative and historical processes.

    When are you open?

    We are open to the public by appointment. We are happy to show anyone around, just send us a message by emailing photolab@factoryworks.org

    How can I know what’s going on at the Photo Lab?

    You can follow us on Instagram at @factoryworksphotolab or email us at photolab@factoryworks.org with the subject line “Newsletter” to receive our monthly newsletter.

    What other services do you provide?

    We offer large format (up to 44 inches borderless on the shortest side) archival inkjet printing on our Epson Stylus Pro 9800 Printer. You can visit Large Format Printing to learn more or place an order.

    My organization is interested in being involved, how can we do that?

    We happily welcome all nonprofit community organizations that would like to learn more about film and darkroom photography. From a tour of a working darkroom to workshops and classes, we will find something that suits your needs. You can reach us by emailing us at photolab@factoryworks.org please put, “community group” as your subject when doing so.

    Second Floor Map

    From the Cemetery Street parking lot:

    1. Face the Pajama Factory building from the smoke stack parking lot on Cemetery Street and enter through the doors on the far right.
    2. Take the passenger elevator to the second floor.
    3. Upon exiting the elevator, turn right and walk down the hallway. The Photo Lab will be on your right-hand side, approximately 15 yards from the elevator, in room 9-206.

    From the Rose and Park parking lot:

    1. Enter the Pajama Factory from the greenhouse parking lot at the corner of Rose Street and Park Avenue.
    2. Go through the double glass doors behind the mosaic pillars and immediately turn right.
    3. Proceed through the glass doors into the courtyard and walk straight across to the wooden double doors.
    4. Take stairs B up to the second floor.
    5. Upon reaching the second floor, turn left. The Photo Lab will be on your left-hand side, in room 9-206.

    We recommend using the Cemetery Street parking lot if you prefer to use an elevator to reach the second floor.

    Follow the Photo Lab