Our Story
Bexhill Darkroom began as a small, independent project focused on making reliable, well-considered materials for alternative photographic processes.
Founded and operated by James E. Bamford in Bexhill-on-Sea, the studio is dedicated to the design and production of small-batch photographic chemistry, process kits, and darkroom materials for photographers, artists, and educators working with historic and hand-coated techniques.
Our focus is on processes such as cyanotype, Van Dyke Brown, salt printing, kallitype, and related 19th-century photographic methods — practices that reward patience, observation, and careful control of materials.
Our approach
All products are prepared in small batches using carefully sourced raw materials and are designed for consistency, clarity, and practical use in the darkroom or studio.
We aim to offer:
- Clearly formulated chemistry
- Thoughtfully designed kits
- Accurate labelling and documentation
- Packaging that reflects the seriousness of the craft
- Tools and materials that support repeatable, reliable results
Whether you are discovering alternative processes for the first time or refining an established practice, our goal is to provide dependable materials that allow the work itself to take priority.
Safety and compliance
Our photographic chemistry range is fully compliant with UK REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) and CLP (Classification, Labelling and Packaging) regulations.
- Each product is:
- Clearly labelled with the appropriate hazard information
- Supplied with Safety Data Sheets (SDS) accessible via QR code and online download
- Packaged in accordance with current UK standards for chemical classification, consumer information, and transport
Safety documentation is maintained and updated as our product range evolves.
Contact
Bexhill Darkroom
9 Crowmere Terrace
Bexhill-on-Sea
TN40 2BD
United Kingdom
hello@bexhill-darkroom.com
Customer support is available Monday to Friday, 9:00–17:00 (UK time).