Darkroom

Not too long ago, the darkroom was a place where the photographer would take the image media (film) from his camera and convert it into prints that he could show to the world. This darkroom was filled with chemicals, trays, clips, hangers, a timer, and an enlarger and was almost pitch black. It was a place where time consuming experimentation was done to come up with an acceptable print.

Today's "digital darkroom" is a more refined place where the photographer can work with his image media (memory cards). It is well lit, no chemicals, not messy (most of the time) and the resulting images can be quickly seen, modified, and displayed.

Grand Photos has its own Darkroom at the photo studio in the Saguaro building. It is open to all members who wish to work on their photographic "masterpieces". The Darkroom consists of the following items:

Computers: There are two PC's and 1 iMac with the latest software programs needed to change your "as shot" images into your own works of art. These can then be saved on your memory card or CD/DVD disc. There are a number of special software programs installed that can perform amazing things with your images.

Printers: There are two printers--a Canon PIXMA PRO-100 and a Canon imagePROGRAF iPF6400 24.0" capable of making high quality prints of your digital images, up to size 24 by 36 inches. We also have a brothers copier/printer. There is a charge for ink and paper.

Scanners: There are two Epson 4990 scanners where you can make digital images of your existing prints (up to 8.5 by 11.7 inches), slides, or negatives. These are connected to the computers so you can perform further processing on them if you desire and then save them on your own media.

Digital Image Converter: There are two Wolverine SNAP Image Converter that can make jpeg images of photos (up to 5x7 inch), negatives, and slides and save them on your SD/SDHC memory card. This is a free-standing devices that are not connected to a computer and are available on loan to members,

Monitor Calibrator: We also have a Spyder Monitor Calibrator available on loan to members.

Online Training: The club has online access to hundreds of training classes available on topics related to photography, software programs, and computers. These can be viewed on our computers – use our headphones or bring your own.

Stop by and look at what is available for your use. There is always someone available that can help with your questions and get you going to do more that just "taking pictures".