A PORTLAND
COMMUNITY DARKROOM
OUR MISSION:
Creating Community Through Photography
A space in Portland, available to everyone, no matter where you are at in your photographic journey.
At Franklin FOTO, our mission is to foster an inclusive and creative environment where individuals from all backgrounds can explore the timeless art of black and white film photography.
As a community darkroom, we are dedicated to preserving the beauty of the analog processes while providing access, education, and support to both seasoned photographers and curious newcomers. We strive to be a cornerstone of Portland’s vibrant photography community, celebrating diversity, collaboration, and the artistry of film.
February in the gallery: Hans Hickerson, Vintage Photographs
Our February exhibition features black and white vintage photographs from Hans Hickerson.
The exhibit will highlight traditionally printed silver gelatin photographs taken in Portland and the Northwest during the late 1970s and early 1980s, transporting visitors to a Portland that existed 40 years ago.
Opening reception: February 8, 2026, 5 - 8 p.m.
Vintage Photographs will be on display through February 28 and open to the public during normal gallery hours, Wednesday through Sunday, noon to 8 p.m.
Portland photographer Hans Hickerson has been making photographs since high school and has been involved locally with Blue Sky Gallery and Gallery 114. He reviews photography books for the online magazine, PhotoBook Journal, where he serves as editor.
We provide all of the equipment you need in order to develop your back & white and color film negatives by hand. Whether it is 35mm, 120mm, or 4x5, we have all the chemicals, reels, film holders, tanks and space you need to process, wash & dry your film.
Film processing
Black & white photo enlarging and film scanning
We built a professional space with everything you need to enlarge your black & white photos on photographic paper. This includes enlargers, easels, and washing/drying stations. Or if you prefer to scan your film, we have everything you need to do so, including both flat-bed and camera-scanning equipment. Due to high demand, it is recommended you reserve camera-scanning equipment prior to use.
Are you interested in enhancing your knowledge of film or are you learning for the first time? There are classes for every skill level to help enhance Black and White Film Photography Skills, from shooting to developing and enlarging, our workshops offer learning for all levels.
Community classes
Do you need a studio space for your next photoshoot? Our in-house studio is ready for all of your photographic needs. Our backdrop wall and space is great for portrait shoots as well as product photography.
Studio space
Membership
For a simple flat monthly fee you can have 40-hour per week access to all of our film developing, printing and scanning facilities, plus 30% discount on community classes and lighting studio rental.
Get connected!
Get connected and stay updated with the most current events, classes, membership and volunteer opportunities at Franklin FOTO!
Contact
Feel free to contact us with any questions.
Email
manager@franklinfoto.org
Sharmil@franklinfoto.org Co-Director