I learnt about printing in Mexico City. Film, darkroom stuff. Until then I’d never seen the inside of a darkroom, never mind one as well appointed as Pablo‘s.
Helped make prints. Peering at contact sheets, watching him work with exposure on the enlarger. Agitating the paper in the developer tray, pluck it out, stop, fix, rinse – all to Leonard Cohen, and the silent march of timer hands.
They were all right: seeing the final image appear on paper, really is like magic.
One facet of the draw of Mexico City – an incidental education in photography, literature, new ideas, concepts, philosophies on life. It was one of the reasons I remained there for so long, despite the city itself wearing away at me. The pleasure of compelling company and conversation is a rare one.
As is how amazing it was, to learn about the craft of photography with a great teacher.
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It’s magic!
I have to say Mark, I am starting to understand when people say “I could spend my life in a darkroom.”
First portrait of Pablo is just brilliant – Lex Luthor cooking Kryptonite. I hope to meet the mad scientist in October.
My best mate meeting my maestro jedi? Will have to make that happen!
Thanks for reviving great memories in a dark room.
You must get back into it Peta….and give me a call if you need a flunky. Will be too happy to oblige 🙂
Thats so cool – there’s also a definite style coming out in your pictures – these have a similar feel to some of the tugboat collection. I’m still to develop a film, despite having most of the stuff to do it. Slack!
I’d suggest getting on with the developing but I hear there are 4 naked cylinders on your mind lately 😉 So you’re forgiven (no more losing keys in the faring eh?). Can’t believe WA adopted LAMS!
And as always, thank you 🙂