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The Darkroom
Capture. Develop. Create.
Step into the magic of analog photography at Lenses & Brushes, home to the area’s last public darkroom. Whether you’re developing your first roll or returning to the familiar glow of the safelight, we offer everything you need to create from start to finish.
Our services include film development and scanning, along with workshops for every level — from Intro to Film Photography & Darkroom Processing to Beginning and Advanced Darkroom Workshops.
For experienced photographers, we offer Darkroom Rental for both film development and black & white printing — providing access to a fully equipped space where you can work independently, experiment, and bring your images to life by hand. At Lenses & Brushes, every frame is crafted with care, every image tells a story, and every visit connects you to the timeless art of photography.
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Shoot. Develop. Print. Together.
FILM & DARKROOM EXPERIENCE
Film & Darkroom Experience is a hands-on analog photography workshop designed for pairs—whether you’re attending with a partner, friend, family member, or creative companion. This experience guides you through the complete photographic process, from loading film to creating finished darkroom prints.
Each pair will share a camera and follow a thoughtfully designed photo scavenger hunt that encourages observation, connection, and storytelling. Prompts help guide what to photograph, removing guesswork while leaving plenty of room for creativity and personal expression. Portraits, details, light, and place all become part of the visual narrative you create together.
After shooting, you’ll return to the studio to develop your film by hand in the darkroom. While negatives dry, there is time to relax, enjoy drinks and light refreshments, and reflect on the images you’ve made. You’ll then return to the darkroom to print selected photographs, experiencing the quiet magic of watching an image appear on paper.
No prior film or darkroom experience is required. All materials, equipment, and step-by-step guidance are provided in a welcoming, unhurried environment. Whether you’re new to analog photography or reconnecting with film, this experience is about slowing down, working with your hands, and creating photographs that last.
Come for the process. Leave with prints—and a deeper appreciation for the art of photography.
*Seats limited to 6 people
Feb 14, 12 - 3 PM
Feb 14, 4 - 7 PM
Includes:
- Use of a shared film camera
- One roll of black & white film
- Film development (guided, hands-on)
- Darkroom printing session
- Two 5x7 darkroom prints per pair
- All chemicals, paper, and instruction
- Drinks & appetizers
The Film Path
The Film Path is a six-week immersive journey into analog photography, guiding students through the full photographic process—from loading a camera to pulling a finished print from the fixer.
This course is designed for those who want to truly understand film photography through hands-on learning, guided practice, and darkroom experience. Students will learn camera fundamentals, shoot intentionally, develop black & white film, and create prints in Boise’s only public darkroom. By the end of the series, you’ll leave with finished prints and the confidence to continue working in film.
Additonal Analog Workshops
Intro to the Darkroom: Safety & Expectations
Before renting our darkroom, all users must complete this brief orientation. In just 15 minutes, you’ll review darkroom safety, proper chemical handling, and studio expectations to ensure a safe and creative working environment. This introduction is required for all renters. Duration: 15 minutes | Cost: $15
Intro to Film Photography & Darkroom Processing
Discover the art of analog photography in this three-part, hands-on workshop. Learn camera basics and shoot with the instructor, develop your own film in the darkroom, and make prints from your negatives. Perfect for beginners or anyone wanting to reconnect with the magic of film, this start-to-finish experience introduces you to the full process of creating handmade photographs. (*we have cameras available to rent for the session.)
Intro to Darkroom Workshop
In this three-part hands-on workshop, learn the full process of darkroom printing. Develop your own black and white film, create a contact sheet, make test strips, and print your images. By the final session, you’ll refine your prints while learning to adjust contrast and tone—turning your negatives into expressive, handcrafted photographs. All Materials included.
Black & White Film Development Workshop
Learn to develop your own black and white 35mm film in this hands-on workshop. You’ll cover darkroom safety, proper chemical use, and each step of the film development process—turning your exposed roll into beautifully processed negatives ready for printing or scanning.
C-41 Film Development Workshop
Learn to develop your own color 35mm film in this hands-on workshop. You’ll cover darkroom safety, proper chemical use, and each step of the film development process—turning your exposed roll into beautifully processed negatives ready for scanning.
While the new darkroom is being built, all workshops are scheduled as individual appointments.
To book email: hello@lensesandbrushes.com or call/text 208-590-2612
Darkroom Rental
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Join the Collective
Join our Creative Collective and enjoy exclusive perks, discounts, and access to workshops, darkroom time, and studio events. Memberships are designed to keep you inspired, connected, and creating—all while saving on your favorite Lenses & Brushes experiences.