Reston Community Center – Open Photo Lab

Just as I almost forgot how to use my 35 mm SLR film camera (remember those??), I signed up for a Black and White Darkroom class at the Reston Community Center Photo Lab with my boyfriend. I have had darkroom experience in the past, but my boyfriend was a complete newbie. As a resident of Reston (small district #5), the 4-​session course was only $ 40 and included all chemicals and 4 additional hours of darkroom time. We had to purchase our own paper, film sleeves and provide our own cameras and film.
The class was a great introduction to darkroom techniques, from developing your film, making/​developing prints, and how to improve your final print. It did not, however, include instruction on proper exposure of your film or field techniques (though the RCC periodically offers such courses separately). The instructor, Sandra, was a sweetheart and did a fantastic job getting everyone started. I do have to warn all of you digital camera converts… you can only take 24 – 36 shots on a single roll of film… so point and shoot with care!!!
As for the lab, it’s a great secret in Reston… Although tiny and beginning to show its age, it has everything you need to develop and print your BW and Color negatives. The Open Lab has hours on Saturdays, Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays (Color processing is not offered every day)… check out the website for an exact schedule. You must call ahead to make a reservation to ensure that Sandra is around and to make sure that it doesn’t get too crowded. I’ve never had a problem reserving a spot for the same day.
So here’s what earned the lab a 5-​star rating in my book… 4 hours at the open lab will only set you back $ 7!!! That’s less than a breakfast at starbucks!!! Do note that if you don’t live or work in small district #5 (Reston), the fees are a little more… $ 10. Still not bad!!!
Happy printing!