Photograms are a kind of camera-less photography made in the darkroom in which you place objects directly on a piece of photographic paper and then expose the composition to the enlarger light. The result is a black-and-white image in which solid objects appear white and translucent objects and materials appear in an almost “x-ray” effect. The contours of the objects are rendered in sharp shapes and lines, sometimes ultra-realistically.

In this photogram experience, you will begin by creating your composition in the light. We have all kinds of fun props to compose with — from animal and dinosaur figurines to dried flowers. You can also bring objects from your work or group that might have special significance for your group to incorporate into their photograms! The images in this gallery were all made with the staff of Indy Glass Arts using their own glass creations!

We have plenty of workspace where you can spread out and really enjoy putting your picture together. This is a great activity for groups because you do this first part in the light, with everybody sharing props and creating together. After you’ve finished your composition, we take it into the darkroom and transfer it to a piece of photo paper for the exposure. Each participant can make up to three photograms during the session.

The whole session takes place under regular room lights or the safelight in the darkroom; there is no total darkness involved in this session.