Why Bexhill Darkroom
Bexhill Darkroom exists to support photographers who value traditional photographic processes—whether working with historical printing techniques, black and white darkroom printing, or both.
Founded and operated by James E. Bamford in Bexhill-on-Sea, Bexhill Darkroom supplies specialist chemistry, process kits, photographic papers, darkroom tools and equipment for cyanotype, Van Dyke Brown, salt printing, kallitype, silver gelatin printing and other traditional photographic processes.
Our aim is simple: to become a trusted UK source for carefully selected photographic materials that are reliable, properly documented and designed for real darkroom and studio practice—not generic craft supplies or anonymous laboratory chemicals.
We believe traditional photography deserves materials that respect both the history of the processes and the standards expected by today's photographers.
Built on photography and chemistry
Bexhill Darkroom grew naturally from a long-standing interest in both photography and chemistry—particularly where practical darkroom work meets the science behind photographic materials.
With a background in photography and formal study in molecular science, the aim was never simply to sell kits or chemistry, but to develop dependable products that combine sound chemistry with practical usability.
Whether preparing historical printing solutions, formulating darkroom toners or selecting papers and equipment, every product is chosen with consistency, reliability and repeatable results in mind.
Our approach
All products are prepared in small batches or carefully selected from trusted manufacturers and are intended to provide dependable performance in the darkroom or studio.
We aim to offer:
- Clearly formulated photographic chemistry
- Thoughtfully designed printing and darkroom kits
- Carefully selected papers, tools and equipment
- Accurate labelling and comprehensive documentation
- Packaging that reflects the quality and longevity of the products
- Materials that support consistent, repeatable results
Whether you're discovering cyanotype for the first time, producing exhibition-quality silver gelatin prints, or exploring historic photographic processes, our goal is to provide dependable materials that allow the work itself to take centre stage.
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).