Wet Plate Workshop
When
Saturday November 21 2026
Sunday November 22 2026
10 AM – 4 PM
Format
In-Person
Cost
$205
Class number
49922
Fall 2026 registration opens: August 15th, 10 AM
Priority registration for scholarship recipients: August 12th, 10 AM
Course description
This 2 day workshop serves as a hands-on introduction to this demanding but beautiful photographic process, invented by Frederick Scott Archer in the mid-19th Century. Participants will use large format period-correct cameras to explore the craftsmanship of tintypes and ambrotypes. The goal is to provide a taste of how the process works, with each participant walking away with 3-4 plates. We will be making photographs at/around the Harvey Milk Photo Center. Participants are invited to bring their own props, old costumes, etc. This course is taught by Allan Barnes, a former photojournalist who has been working extensively with the process for almost ten years.
Requirements
Photo Center Orientation is not required for this class, but it is required if student wishes to come to the Photo Center outside the workshop to develop film on their own and/or print their own photos in the Darkroom.
Note: Please bring aprons and work clothing (materials used can easily stain clothing).
Good to know
Register for this class
Spots are limited and classes fill quickly once registration opens. Register through SF Recreation & Parks using the button below.
Need a hand with the fee? See our scholarship program.
New to the Photo Center?
Members and day-pass users take a one-hour Photo Center Orientation before using the darkroom and labs. Some classes count as your orientation; the requirements above will say so.