Community Darkroom | Nazareth Arts

The Nazareth Community Darkroom was established in 2026 and is a shared photo lab space where local creatives can get hands-on in the photographic arts. As interest in film photography, experimental photography, and alternative processes continues to grow—drawing in both those who cherish analog traditions and those discovering the darkroom for the first time—we aim to support that renewed enthusiasm. Our cozy 80-square-foot darkroom provides access to the tools and facilities needed to develop film, create photographic prints, and refine technical skills, while also fostering meaningful connections among photographers. Whether you are exploring photography for the first time or returning with prior experience, the Nazareth Community Darkroom is designed to be both a welcoming and supportive creative hub.

Schedule Your Time

The Darkroom is generally available for use during our regular Gallery Open Hours. Other times may also be available based on staffing. The Darkroom is really only large enough for one person to work comfortably at a time, but for some projects two or more people could manage.

Image Gallery

Take a "virtual tour" of our darkroom and see some of the great prints & events that have come out of our community space!

Contact Us

Have questions about the darkroom? Want to donate equipment, cameras, film, supplies? Need help with something. We look forward to hearing from you!

IMPORTANT: an initial introduction meeting is required before you can begin scheduling yourself for personal darkroom use. During this session we will inform you of the rules & guidelines of our Darkroom, and help familiarize you with our facility. Please CONTACT US to schedule this.

FAQs

Question: WHAT EQUIPMENT IS AVAILABLE FOR USE? The Nazareth Community Darkroom is set up to develop black and white film and process black and white prints. We have two enlargers: an Omega C-700 that is set up with a 35mm negative carrier and a Beseler 23C Series II with a 35mm as well as a square/6x6” negative carrier for 120 film. We have the chemistry necessary to create black and white prints. We also have several sets of developing tanks and chemicals for processing black and white roll film. We do not provide film or photographic paper.

Question: WHAT SHOULD I BRING? We are able to provide photographers with the chemicals needed to develop film and process prints. If you have a specific chemistry you prefer to work with, you’re welcome to bring it. If bringing your own chemistry, please make sure it is in appropriate containers for storage and transport. Our darkroom is BYOP (Bring Your Own Paper). So if you are making prints, bringing your own paper is appreciated. We have trays that can handle up to 11X14" prints.

Question: WHAT DOES IT COST TO USE THE DARKROOM? Public use of our Darkroom is $5 per hour. This nominal cost helps us pay for supplies and keep the darkroom operating.

Question: DO YOU ACCEPT DONATIONS? Yes, we accept donations of film cameras and equipment. Please reach out to the Darkroom manager before dropping off any donations. Particular items of interest currently are: large trays for largers than 11X14" prints, Englarger with color head, Enlarger that can handle 4X5" sheet film, enlarger lenses greater than 50mm.