Photography in Focus
By: Caroline Tucker
Updated: January 26, 2012
Inside an old firehouse on Monroe Avenue in Rochester, you'll find the Community Darkroom.
It started in 1977.
"I always used Kodak film, I still use Kodak film," said Chris Schwer, professional photographer.
Professional photographer Chris Schwer is working on an art perfected by Eastman Kodak.
"Once I got that camera in my hand, I never looked back," said Schwer.
It all started with a "Photo 101" class, Schwer took at Monroe Community College.
"In late 1977 and early 1980's, I taught myself how to print at facilities with the Community Darkroom," said Schwer.
Darkroom Director Sharon Turner was also there at the beginning.
"I originally my first film was Tri-X," said Turner, who has worked at the Community Darkroom since its inception.
"I think the first time I developed my first roll of film put that blank piece of paper in the chemical and watched the image rise up, it's like magic," said Turner.
These days there are more questions about film's role in photography.
"It's sad that that is happening," said Turner, who talked about Kodak's financial troubles.
Schwer primarily uses Kodak film and products for his work.
"What it means to me personally is that I worry that the materials I love and have grown up with will no longer be available," said Schwer.
While the picture of Kodak is changing, those in the photography community say it's disappointing but not necessarily an end to what they do.
"Our reality is we still use film, still do the darkroom. So a lot of us here we are still active and still doing it," said Turner.
Turner and Schwer say it may just take some extra work to what they love.
"I have a passion for what I do, so I will search out the materials and equipment to do what I need to do," said Turner.
Neither thinks Kodak will ever truly be out of the film business. But whatever happens, they'll work on perfecting the picture.
"I am always going to do this. I'm never going to stop. I love it," said Schwer.
The Community Darkroom says its a resource for photographers who want to continue working on their craft. For more information you can click here.
If you want to find out more information about photographer Chris Schwer, you can find that here.
