Film Photo I

Classes begin January 6th

Class Details
  • Registration
  • Student Level
    Beginner
  • Course Length
    8 weeks
  • Start Date
    Tuesday January 6th
  • Start Time
    7:00pm
  • Instructors
  • Cost
    $440 (first class is free)
  • Curriculum
  • Location
    3301 N Lincoln - map
  • By Car
    Main Junction Belmont and Lincoln
  • Public Transport
    Brown Line or #11 Bus - CTA System Map

Film Photo I introduces students to the basic operation of a 35mm single lens reflex (SLR) camera.

In this class, you'll learn the principles and the subtleties of exposure and the elements of good composition. You'll participate in a three-week assignment/discussion about the psychological relationship between the photographer and subject. After the third week of the class, you'll develop black and white film at home and then make photographic prints in the CPC darkrooms.

You'll need to commit between 10 and 12 hours per week for Film Photo I. We'll spend up to three hours in the classroom, four to five hours in the darkroom; and 90 minutes to two hours at home for developing film. You'll use the rest of the time for shooting assignments, which will involve shooting a roll of film (36 frames).

Each class builds on the skills you learned the previous week, so it's important to consistently attend classes and darkroom sessions and to complete your weekly shooting assignments on time.

You must bring your camera and lens to each class, including darkroom sessions. You should also come with paper and a pen to take notes.

In addition to the camera and lens, students are responsible for purchasing all items on the Film Photo I materials list, including chemicals and equipment for developing film at home. A materials list will be distributed in class. CPC will provide all darkroom equipment and items other than those included on the materials list, including darkroom chemicals, enlargers and driers. There is no need to build a darkroom at home.

You’ll attend five darkroom sessions in addition to the weekly classroom meetings. By the time you complete your final darkroom class, you'll have sufficient knowledge and comprehension of black and white photo printing to move on to Film Photo II.

For the first class, you should bring:

  • Your 35 mm SLR camera and 50mm f1.8 fixed focal length lens (zoom lens may not be used for Film Photo I)
  • Your camera manual, if you have it
  • Your personal calendar/date book
  • A notebook, pen and pencil