71 Darkroom - Lewes

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of Lewes, East Sussex, lies a hidden gem for photography enthusiasts and professionals alike: 71 Darkroom, situated at 71 High Street, Lewes BN7 1XG, United Kingdom. This unassuming yet extraordinary space is a sanctuary for those who appreciate the art of analog photography. It is owned and operated by professional photographer and educator Torz Dallison, who has lovingly restored and transformed this historic building into a state-of-the-art darkroom and photography studio.

Main Services

• Photography Studio: 71 Darkroom offers a fully equipped photography studio, perfect for portrait, product, and fashion photography. The space boasts natural light, a cyclorama backdrop, and an extensive range of equipment available for hire, including cameras, lenses, lighting, and props.
• Photography Classes: Torz Dallison provides a variety of workshops and classes, catering to both beginners and experienced photographers. Courses range from basic camera operations and darkroom printing techniques to advanced topics such as portrait photography and Photoshop. Private one-on-one tuition is also available.
• Photography Services: 71 Darkroom offers a range of photographic services, including:
  • Film processing and scanning
  • Darkroom printing
  • Portrait, event, and product photography
  • Photographic restoration and archiving
• Darkroom Hire: For those who prefer to work independently, 71 Darkroom offers darkroom hire by the hour, half-day, or full-day. The darkroom is equipped with enlargers, color and black-and-white printers, and a range of papers and chemicals.

Location and Access

71 Darkroom is conveniently located in Lewes town center, with easy access to local amenities and public transportation. Lewes train station is a short 10-minute walk away, with regular services to London and Brighton. There are numerous parking options nearby, including the pay-and-display car parks on Malling Street and Fisher Street.

Featured Characteristics

• Historic Building: The building that houses 71 Darkroom dates back to the 18th century and has been beautifully preserved, combining period features with modern facilities.
• Sustainable Practices: Torz Dallison is committed to minimizing the environmental impact of the photography industry. 71 Darkroom uses energy-efficient equipment and recycles chemicals and paper where possible.
• Community Hub: As well as providing a space for photographers to work and learn, 71 Darkroom hosts exhibitions, talks, and social events, fostering a sense of community among local photographers and enthusiasts.

Practical Information

• Opening Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 10 am to 6 pm (Darkroom hire available outside these hours by appointment)
• Contact: [email protected] or +44 (0)1273 473558
• Website: torzdallison.com
• Social Media: @71darkroom (Instagram and Facebook)

Positive Aspects from Reviews

With an average rating of 5/5 from 8 reviews on Google My Business, 71 Darkroom receives consistent praise for its facilities, atmosphere, and customer service.

• Facilities: Customers appreciate the high-quality equipment, well-maintained darkroom, and comfortable studio space.
• Atmosphere: Many customers comment on the friendly, welcoming, and relaxed atmosphere at 71 Darkroom, which helps put them at ease and encourages creativity.
• Torz Dallison: Customers praise Torz's expertise, patience, and passion for photography, as well as her ability to teach and support others in a supportive and encouraging manner.

👍 Reviews of 71 Darkroom

S O.

5/5

Had a wonderful one to one darkroom printing session recently with Torz at 71 Darkroom. She was patient and knowledgeable. The space was well equipped, and the session interesting, relaxed, and just what I needed to get me back into a darkroom! Highly recommended for beginners and those more experienced alike.

Judith D.

5/5

Warm and friendly tuition in the B/W film developing and printing workshops from a professional. Excellent facilities available for hire covering 35mm to large format. Torz's help and guidance has enabled me to take control of the whole process instead of relying on high street labs and the rental option means you don't need your own darkroom to get started!

Jennifer P.

5/5

71 Darkroom in Lewes run by Torz Dallison is a very special independent darkroom. The space is excellent and kitted out with everything you need. I recently participated in a solarisation one day workshop with Torz. Torz is a great teacher. It was a magical experience which I would highly recommend.

Bill B.

5/5

A wonderful darkroom, well equipped with three De Vere enlargers handling any negatives from 35mm to 5x4 large format. The owner, Torz, is always on hand to lend her friendly and expert advice.

dp

5/5

I think 71 Darkroom is one of those hidden gems within photography. A real world facility that was affordable enough to dip my toe into darkroom printing. So far I’ve tried a course in Photograms which was brilliant. I felt supported to learn at my own pace by Torz Dallison who was both patient and encouraging. Definitely worth checking out, 👍🏾.

Andrew L.

5/5

Great resource. Enlargers from 35mm to large format. Very helpful people!!!!

Tyrone D.

5/5

Louise D.

5/5