The Alchemy of Analog: Alternative Film Developers with Peter Schrager

Saturday, July 19th, 2025, 10am-4pm

$125 Non-Members
$110 VCP Member

Instructor: Peter Schrager

Discover the art and science of alternative film development in this unique one-day workshop at VCP on Friday, July 19th from 10am–4pm. Taught by VCP member and experimental photographer Peter Schrager, this hands-on session will introduce participants to developing black & white film using surprising household ingredients like instant coffee (caffenol) and red wine. These eco-friendly, DIY processes offer a distinctive visual style—gritty, soft, unpredictable—and open up creative new possibilities for analog photographers. Participants will learn how to mix and use these alternative developers, review their chemical properties and aesthetic results, and process their own roll of film using one or both methods. No prior darkroom experience is necessary, though basic film knowledge is helpful.

Each participant will be asked to bring one roll of exposed but undeveloped black & white film (preferably Ilford HP5 or Kodak Tri-X 400). All other materials and chemistry will be provided. The workshop is $125 for non-members and $110 for VCP members – limited to 5 participants to ensure plenty of one-on-one guidance. Come ready to experiment and embrace the unexpected!

* * *

Online Registration: