The Comeback of Darkroom Printing – Why Film Photography is Thriving Again

The Smart Enlarger 35 is a perfect Enlarger for start printing. The setup is really compact and the results are stunning.

In a world dominated by pixels, something unexpected is happening: photographers are returning to the darkroom. Instead of viewing millions of tiny dots on a screen, they’re rediscovering the magic of light, chemistry, and photographic paper. Film photography is experiencing a remarkable renaissance – and with it, the timeless craft of darkroom printing.

Why are so many photographers returning to film?

It’s simple: film slows you down.

Unlike digital photography, shooting film encourages a more mindful approach. Every press of the shutter is deliberate, every frame precious. This thoughtful process naturally extends into the darkroom, where images slowly come to life in the developer tray – a moment many photographers describe as nothing short of magical.

The tactile experience – the feel of the paper, the smell of the chemicals, the warm glow of safelights – creates an atmosphere that no digital display can match.

Modern darkroom printing – Tradition meets innovation

While the basic principles haven’t changed, today’s darkrooms can benefit from modern technology, making the craft more precise, flexible, and accessible than ever.

Take the Smart Enlarger 35 and Smart Enlarger 120 by SmartLab35, for example:

• High-precision LED cold light source with multigrade compatibility

• Smartphone app control for iOS and Android

• Compatible with classic enlarger lenses (120 model) or camera lenses (35 model)

• Compact, portable design – perfect even for small spaces

• Works with standard USB-C power delivery adapters or power banks

  
  

These enlargers blend the craftsmanship of analogue printing with the convenience of modern tools, allowing both beginners and professionals to work more efficiently without sacrificing the charm of the traditional process.

Smart Enlarger 35

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A growing global community

Darkroom photography is no longer a niche hobby. Around the world, photo clubs, workshops, and exhibitions are attracting new audiences. On platforms like Instagram and YouTube, photographers share tips, techniques, and inspiration, proving that the darkroom is alive and well – and full of creative possibilities.

For many newcomers, printing their first photo is a revelation. For experienced photographers, it’s a return to a process that feels more personal and artistic than editing on a computer.

Conclusion – Back to the essence of photography

The comeback of darkroom printing isn’t just about nostalgia – it’s about creating images with your hands, understanding the physical nature of photography, and making prints that truly last.

If you’ve ever wanted to experience the magic of watching a print appear in the tray, there’s never been a better time to start. And with modern tools like the Smart Enlarger 35 and Smart Enlarger 120, setting up your own darkroom has never been easier.

Discover more about our enlargers and start your own darkroom journey today.