We're now 10 interviews into this series and its been fantastic to hear about so many community darkrooms and the work that they do. This time we're heading to Turkey to speak to Fotohane Darkroom.

Let’s start easy. Tell us A little about the darkroom, what it’s called and how it started.

The project is called Fotohane Darkroom. It’s a mobile and analog photography workshop based in Mardin, in southeastern Turkey, near the Syrian border. We work mainly with Syrian, Iraqi, and Turkish Kurdish children, using photography as a tool for expression, healing, and connection.

The name Fotohane means “house of photo” in Turkish, Kurdish, Arabic, and Persian – and it was actually chosen by the children themselves, which makes it even more meaningful. Our goal is to create a safe, inspiring space where children can explore their creativity and tell their own stories through the lens of a camera.

What is the best piece of printing tip or advice you have ever received?

I remember during one of the workshops, I was printing a photo and got really impatient because it was taking so long. But my teacher told me, “Be patient—the photo needs time to come alive.”

Now, when I print, I like watching the image slowly appear in the tray. It feels like it’s telling me a secret. I’ve learned that printing isn’t just about making a picture—it’s about waiting, looking closely, and feeling proud of what you made with your own hands.

Where are you based?

We’re based in Mardin, a historic city in southeastern Turkey, right near the Syrian border.

It’s a place where many cultures and languages come together—Turkish, Kurdish, Arabic, and more. That mix really shapes our project. Most of our workshops take place in the old part of the city, but we also travel to nearby villages and communities to reach more children who don’t usually have access to creative spaces like this.

What facilities do you have? How many enlargers etc.

At Fotohane Darkroom, we keep things simple but fully hands-on. Our facilities include:

  • 1 enlarger for black-and-white printing
  • 20 compact analog cameras, all donated
  • A film scanner for digitizing negatives
  • Developing tanks and film changing bags for processing film
  • A steady supply of black-and-white film and developer

Even with limited equipment, we make sure every child gets to experience the full process—from shooting to developing to printing. It’s not about having the most gear, but about creating an inspiring space where they can tell their own stories.

Who can use the space?

The space at Fotohane Darkroom is mainly for children and young people from the region—especially those affected by war, displacement, or limited access to creative education.

We work with Syrian, Iraqi, and Turkish Kurdish children, offering free workshops in analog photography. Right now, the space is not open to the general public—it’s used specifically for our workshops and long-term programs.

In the future, we hope to expand and maybe open the darkroom for local artists, young photographers, or community projects, but the main focus will always stay on the children.

What’s the best way for people to get in touch with you?

The best way to get in touch with us is through Instagramor by visiting our website: fotohane.org.

Whether you’d like to volunteer, buy prints, or support us with a donation, we’d love to hear from you. Every bit of help—whether it’s time, resources, or sharing our story—makes a big difference in keeping this space alive for the children.

You can also email us directly at info@fotohane.org for more details or collaboration ideas.

What can they expect when they visit and so they need any experience to come along?

When people visit Fotohane Darkroom, they can expect a warm and creative space where photography comes alive in the most hands-on way. Visitors get to see the entire analog process—from loading film into cameras, shooting photos, developing negatives in tanks, to printing in the darkroom under the red light.

No prior experience is needed at all! We welcome beginners and experts alike. Our team guides everyone step-by-step, making sure it’s fun and easy to learn. Whether you’re curious about photography or want to support the children’s creativity, you’ll find a friendly and inspiring environment here.

Do you charge a membership or any fees?

No, Fotohane Darkroom does not charge any membership or participation fees. All workshops and activities are free for the children involved. The project is supported through donations, grants, and the sale of prints created by the children themselves.

If you're interested in supporting our work, you can:

  • Buy Prints: Purchase photographs made by the children during our workshops. These prints are available through our Instagram and website.
  • Donate: Contribute financially to help cover the costs of materials, film, chemicals, and other essentials. Donations can be made via our website.
  • Volunteer: Join us in our mission to provide creative spaces for children. Whether you're a photographer, educator, or simply passionate about supporting youth, we welcome your involvement. Reach out to us at info@fotohane.orgto learn more.

Your support, in any form, helps us continue offering this unique and empowering experience to children in Mardin and surrounding areas.

Do you have any social media?

Our main platform is @fotohanedarkroom. Here, you can see the children’s photographs, behind-the-scenes moments from our workshops, and updates on exhibitions and events.

Website

For more information about our mission, projects, and how to support us, visit fotohane.org. You can also donate, buy prints, or get in touch with us directly through the site.

Email

Prefer to reach out directly? Email us at info@fotohane.org for inquiries, volunteering, or collaboration ideas.

Why should people come along?

People should come along to Fotohane Darkroom because it’s more than just a photography workshop—it’s a place where creativity, storytelling, and healing come together.

Visitors and participants get a unique chance to learn the timeless art of analog photography in a supportive and welcoming environment. It’s a space where children and young people can discover their own voices and share their stories through images.

For anyone interested in photography, education, or community work, being part of Fotohane means contributing to something meaningful—helping empower the next generation to express themselves and build confidence.

Plus, you’ll experience the magic of watching photos develop in the darkroom, a hands-on experience that’s rare and unforgettable in today’s digital world.

Give a shoutout to your personal favourite retailer.

A big shoutout to Analogue Wonderland — one of my personal favorite retailers for all things film photography! They offer a fantastic range of cameras, films, and darkroom supplies with great customer service and a real passion for analog. Their support has been invaluable to many photographers and projects like ours.

If you’re into film photography or just curious to explore, definitely check them out!

Are there any darkroom printers that you admire?

Yes, there are several darkroom printers I really admire for their dedication and craft. One that stands out is Ansel Adams, whose mastery of printing helped define the art of black-and-white photography. His attention to detail and ability to bring out the depth and emotion in a print is truly inspiring.

Closer to our work, I also admire photographers who use darkroom printing as a way to preserve stories and culture, especially in challenging environments. Their patience and skill remind me every day why analog photography is such a powerful medium for expression.

Shoutout your favourite photography/darkroom YouTube channels.

  • The Art of Photography – Great mix of gear reviews, technique tips, and photography philosophy.
  • Matt Day Films – Wonderful for learning film photography basics and creative projects.
  • APhotoFolio – Deep dives into darkroom printing techniques and tips for analog enthusiasts.
  • Emulsive – Focuses on film photography culture and community, with lots of inspiring stories.

Nominate one other person you think should fill in this form and we will reach out to them.

I nominate Ithaque Chambre Noire — a unique photography space and darkroom in Paris founded by Alexandre Arminjon. Their commitment to analog photography, intercultural dialogue, and community engagement makes them an inspiring candidate for this opportunity.

As this is an ILFORD interview it would be remiss of us not to ask about your favourite ILFORD darkroom products.