The art of analogue photography, darkroom processing, and developing prints is experiencing a resurgence in popularity, 50 years after the tertiary photography course was first offered to Wellington students in 1975. This revival is a testament to the timeless appeal of analogue methods, which continue to captivate audiences and inspire new generations of photographers.
- Key Elements
- Analogue photography involves using physical photographic materials, such as film and paper, to capture and manipulate images
- Darkroom processing and developing prints is a crucial aspect of analogue photography, requiring technical skills and attention to detail
At the heart of this revival is Massey University’s state-of-the-art 18-booth darkroom, which was unveiled alongside a suite of other photographic resources, including lighting studios, film scanners, and digital print facilities. This semester, more than 70 students are enrolled in the first-year Introduction to Darkroom course at Massey’s Toi RauwhΔrangi College of Creative Arts.
“Our programme continues to shape generations of image-makers, researchers, and cultural commentators who explore how we see and interpret the world around us.”
β Shaun Waugh, Photography Major Coordinator
Photography is available as a major within the Bachelor of Design (BDes) at Te Kunenga ki PΕ«rehuroa Massey University, offering students the opportunity to complete a three-year BDes, four-year BDes (Hons) degree, or a Masters in Fine Arts. The programme’s enduring relevance is a testament to the power of analogue photography to inspire and educate.
Exhibition Highlights
The university is celebrating the 50-year anniversary with an exhibition of images provided by over 100 alumni, former, and current photography teaching staff. The exhibition is being held in the Engine Room at Massey’s Wellington campus from Tuesday, July 22 to Saturday, August 9.
- The exhibition features a diverse range of images from photographers around Aotearoa New Zealand and the world
- The images are showcased in a way that highlights the technical and creative skills of each photographer
- The exhibition provides a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the craft of analogue photography
| Name | Images Featured |
|---|---|
| Anne Noble | Selected from a large body of work, showcasing her unique approach to photography |
| David Cook | Features a range of images that explore the relationship between nature and humanity |
| Wayne Barrar | Highlights his expertise in capturing the beauty of the natural world |
The exhibition is a testament to the enduring value of analogue ways of seeing and making. As Shaun Waugh notes, “This technological coincidence underscores a key tension explored in the exhibition: between the mechanical past and the computational future of photography, and the enduring value of analogue ways of seeing and making.”
Technical Details
* 18-booth darkroom
* Lighting studios
* Film scanners
* Digital print facilities
- Differences in Photography
- Analogue vs Digital
- Analogue photography involves the use of physical materials, such as film and paper
- Digital photography involves the use of electronic devices, such as cameras and computers
As the demand for analogue photography continues to grow, it is clear that the art form is not only a nostalgic nod to the past but a vibrant and dynamic medium that inspires and educates. With the resurgence of interest in analogue methods, the art form is poised to continue its revival, captivating audiences and inspiring new generations of photographers.
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