Fine Black & White Printing – G25120103
The analog process is a powerful counter-revolution to modern urgency. The numerous hours spent in the darkroom require a slow, deliberate pace that is calming and provides a structured, positive environment. The tactile, chemical process yields images that are authentic with a soulful connection to the moment of capture and the intent of the artist.
This workshop will hone your darkroom techniques while exploring options of various fiber-based paper choices and a variety of developers and toners. Since it is advantageous to print from the same negative(s) to see the possibilities, bring a few of your favorite negatives to work with. There will be a few field trips with hiking as well.
The professional collaboration between Kent Bowser, who began teaching at Ghost Ranch in 1991, and Margs Musson, who started as a student in Bowser’s Jan term course in 1997, embodies the desire to connect students to previous generations of analog photographers. This clear lineage is not just a historical detail; it is a validation of the curriculum’s effectiveness and provides benefits from an unbroken chain of mentorship tested and refined specifically within the Ghost Ranch environment. The dual expertise of the instructors—representing over 60 years of combined experience—provides a multilayered learning environment. Kent’s depth of art history and professional shooting/printing knowledge and Margs’ own journey from beginner to co-instructor, coupled with her professional scope, creates an approachable pathway for students of all camera experience levels.
This workshop offers valuable information to take your photography skills to the next level. Come join this class and create your next masterpiece.
Registration is highly competitive for this intensive workshop. Secure your place now to step off the grid and commit to the enduring art of the silver print.
Instructors
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Kent BowserKent Bowser, Since 1977 Kent Bowser has photographed the sacred sites and landscapes of the Southwest. He still prefers B&W film, but more recently uses digital photography and has an affection for the iPhone’s imagery. His teaching at Ghost Ranch began in 1991, with January Term classes following in 1996. Kent holds a BA in art history and BS and MA degrees in photography from Ohio State University. Aside from Ghost Ranch, a few of his favorite locales are the Bisti De Na Zin Badlands, Boyce Thompson Arboretum, Chaco Canyon, and SE Utah.
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Margs Seegers MussonMargs Seegers Musson has spent more than 25 years photographing the landscapes, architecture, and people of the Southwest, working extensively in both traditional darkroom and digital formats. Her connection to Ghost Ranch began in 1997 as a student in Kent Bowser’s black-and-white landscape photography course, an experience that set
her on a lifelong creative path. Owner of Seegers Images, LLC, Margs maintains her own darkroom and continues to work with black and white film alongside digital tools. She has assisted in multiple Ghost Ranch photography workshops, helping students master camera techniques, composition, and darkroom processes. In addition to Ghost Ranch,
she enjoys photographing historic architecture, environmental portraits, and the varied terrain of the West.