This In Focus interview is with Dave Champion of Black & White Basement, exploring the fascinating world of darkroom photography and the art of traditional black and white printing.
The Interview
How long have you been into photography? Was there a reason you got into it?
I've been into photography for about 8 years now. I got into it because I wanted to capture memories of my children growing up. I started with a basic point and shoot camera, then moved to a DSLR, and now I'm fully immersed in film photography and darkroom printing.
What photographers past or present inspire you if any?
I'm inspired by the work of Ansel Adams, Henri Cartier-Bresson, and Dorothea Lange. Their mastery of composition and their ability to capture decisive moments have always fascinated me. I also admire contemporary photographers like Sebastião Salgado for their dedication to traditional processes.
Did you decide deliberately on the style of photography that you currently do or did it just naturally evolve?
It evolved naturally. I started with digital photography but became increasingly drawn to the tactile nature of film and the hands-on process of darkroom printing. There's something magical about watching an image emerge in the developer that digital just can't replicate.
What is your favourite image that you've taken to date and why?
My favorite image is a black and white portrait I took of my daughter. It was shot on Ilford HP5 Plus and printed in my darkroom. The way the light fell on her face and the grain structure of the film created something truly special. It's not technically perfect, but it captures a moment of pure innocence.
Most photographers have a favourite lens that they keep going back to, do you have one and if so what is it and why is it your favourite?
My favorite lens is my 50mm f/1.8. It's simple, reliable, and forces me to think about composition. I love the natural perspective it provides and the beautiful bokeh at wide apertures. It's the lens I reach for most often.
What is your next project going to be?
I'm working on a series of street photography images shot entirely on black and white film. I want to capture the essence of urban life through traditional processes, focusing on light, shadow, and human interaction.
Do you remember your first camera and what was it?
My first camera was a Canon PowerShot A80. It was a 4-megapixel point and shoot that I used to document my children's early years. It was basic, but it taught me the fundamentals of composition and exposure.
What is it about photography that you love the most?
I love the process of creation from start to finish. From loading film into the camera to developing the negatives to making the final print - every step is a craft that requires skill and attention to detail. There's something deeply satisfying about creating a physical print with your own hands.
What do you think you'll be photographing in ten years time?
I hope to still be working with film and darkroom processes. I'd like to explore large format photography and alternative printing techniques like platinum/palladium printing. I want to continue pushing the boundaries of what's possible with traditional methods.
If you could give just one piece of advice to someone who wanted to start out in photography today what would it be?
Learn the fundamentals first - composition, exposure, and light. Don't get caught up in having the latest equipment. A good photographer can create compelling images with any camera. Also, don't be afraid to experiment and make mistakes. That's how you learn and develop your own style.
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