Explore wet plate collodion, a 19th-century photographic process that uses silver, light and hand-prepared chemistry to create unique photographic images directly on glass or metal plates.

This intensive, hands-on workshop introduces the technical and creative possibilities of wet plate photography, from preparing photographic chemistry and working with a large-format camera to exposing, developing and finishing your own plates.

Developed in 1851, wet plate collodion remains an important photographic technique for artists interested in historic processes, materiality and experimental image-making. Each plate is a one-of-a-kind photographic object, shaped by the chemistry, materials and working methods involved.

Who is this workshop for?

Suitable for beginners, photography enthusiasts, practising photographers and artists wishing to develop specialist skills in alternative photographic processes.

Whether you want to learn wet plate collodion from scratch, refine your technique or explore its potential within a personal or conceptual project, the one-to-one format allows the session to be tailored to your experience and interests.

The course takes place in my West London artist studio and darkroom, drawing on over a decade of experience working with historic photographic techniques and teaching in arts and cultural institutions.

Course Agenda

This six-hour practical workshop covers the complete wet plate collodion process, combining technical demonstrations with supervised, hands-on practice.

1. Health & Safety — Safe handling of photographic chemistry, equipment and darkroom procedures.

2. Equipment & Darkroom Setup — Introduction to wet plate equipment, portable darkrooms, and working in the studio or on location.

3. Photographic Chemistry — Preparation and use of cadmium-free salted collodion, silver nitrate bath, developer, fixer and glass-cleaning solutions. Understanding chemical maturation, storage and shelf life.

4. Large-Format Photography — Introduction to large-format cameras, lenses and specialised wet plate holders.

5. Lighting & Exposure — Studio lighting setups, light sensitivity and exposure measurement for collodion photography.

6. Plate Preparation — Cutting and cleaning glass, preparing metal plates, coating with collodion and sensitising in silver nitrate.

7. Making Your Photographs — Exposing, developing and fixing wet plate portraits or still-life compositions. You are welcome to bring objects or ideas for a personal project.

8. Finishing & Varnishing — Introduction to protective varnishes, finishing methods and handling completed plates.

9. Troubleshooting — Identifying common technical problems and developing greater control over the photographic process.

What You Will Learn

By the end of the workshop, you will have gained a practical understanding of the wet plate collodion process, including its chemistry, equipment, exposure methods and finishing techniques.

You will have the opportunity to create approximately 3–4 original wet plate photographs, depending on your chosen subjects and the pace of the session.

Beyond the technical foundations, the workshop encourages experimentation with the physical qualities of photographic materials and considers how historic processes can be used in contemporary artistic practice.

Level & Experience

All levels are welcome. Previous experience with large-format cameras or darkroom photography is helpful but not required. You will be guided through each stage of the process, with the content adapted to your existing knowledge and creative goals.

Location & Booking

Duration: One day, 6 hours
Format: Private one-to-one tuition
Price: £295 group session, £495 one day one to one , £795 two days one to one ,
Location: Artist studio,, Earl's Court, West London