Salt Printing workshop with Joseph Carrigan

On June 22nd, 2023, the Alternative Process Social (APS) hosted an engaging Salt Printing workshop at Daylight Studio in Leaside, led by photographic artist Joseph Carrigan. Known for his mastery of alternative processing techniques, Joseph introduced participants to the fascinating world of salt printing—a process that dates back to the 1830s and was one of the earliest forms of photographic printing. The hands-on workshop offered attendees the chance to learn this historic technique in an intimate setting, using digital negatives and creating prints that embodied the timeless beauty of salt prints.

The workshop was structured to guide participants through each step of the salt printing process, from preparing the sensitized paper to developing the final image. With three fully equipped stations and all materials provided, attendees were able to follow along with Joseph’s expert instruction in real-time. His clear explanations and patient teaching style made the complex process approachable, ensuring that even those unfamiliar with salt printing could confidently participate and create their own prints. Participants also received handouts with reference materials, allowing them to continue practicing the technique at home.

Joseph Carrigan’s expertise in salt printing, combined with his experience in large-format photography, brought a deep level of insight to the session. He shared not only the technical aspects of the process but also the historical significance of salt printing in the evolution of photography. His dedication to perfecting this and other alternative techniques, such as albumen printing, added rich context to the workshop, sparking engaging discussions among participants about the origins and modern applications of these early processes.

Throughout the four-hour session, attendees worked with digital negatives provided in advance, allowing them to focus on mastering the process while creating prints from their own images. Joseph’s detailed demonstrations ensured that participants understood each aspect of salt printing, from coating the paper to exposing and developing the prints. The controlled yet creative environment encouraged experimentation and learning, making the workshop both educational and inspiring for all involved.

By the end of the workshop, participants left with beautiful salt prints they had crafted themselves and the knowledge needed to replicate the process independently. Joseph’s thorough instruction and the collaborative atmosphere made this workshop a memorable and enriching experience, further solidifying the Alternative Process Social’s mission to provide educational opportunities in historical photographic techniques.