Ulanowsky offers intro to black and white film photography on July 16

Loudoun photographer Philip Ulanowsky will present an introduction to black-and-white film photography at the Purcellville Library on Saturday, July 16, from 2 to 3:30 p.m. The program is titled “Film Photography Rebounds: An Introduction to the Art and Craft of the Silver Print.”

Prompted by the significant resurgence of film photography over recent years, he will share his expertise in what has been his passion since age 16 and became his profession for more than 30 years—“everything from photojournalism to architecture, and lots in between.” He now concentrates on natural light portraiture.

“Film has become part of a ‘retro’ fad,” said Ulanowsky, “but many people are discovering reasons for deeper exploration and engagement. In fact, a number of professionals and former film enthusiasts are returning to film. The special beauty of fine black-and-white is resonating with a growing number of them.”

Complementing his presentation with visuals, Ulanowsky will speak to the reasons for film’s rebound and what B and W has to offer. After an overview of the film-to-print process, he will dig in to identify the wide array of creative decisions available in each of six steps along the way that allow shaping the composition and tonal scale to achieve the artist’s desired result.

Choice of film and camera format, the relationship of lenses to perspective, and options in making the fine photographic print are included. Said Ulanowsky, “People are amazed at the flexibility of the process and how much can go into making a fine print.”

Along with the presentation, some original prints will be on display, as well as samples of film negatives and an old-fashioned view camera that uses 4×5-inch film. Ulanowsky says he has timed his presentation to leave at least a half-hour for questions afterwards. “That’s the part I like best,” he said.