01 / COLOR
Deep, warm blacks punctuated by the distinctive red safelight glow. Amber and sepia tones evoke chemical processes and aged prints.
02 / TYPOGRAPHY
Special Elite for headlines evokes vintage photo annotations. IBM Plex Mono provides crisp readability in low light conditions.
03 / SPACING
A 4px base unit creates consistent rhythm. Generous spacing aids visibility in low light.
04 / BUTTONS
Inspired by darkroom timers and enlarger controls. The safelight glow guides interaction.
05 / FORMS
Clean fields with subtle borders. Focus states glow with safelight red.
06 / CARDS
Like photo paper emerging in the developer tray. Hover reveals the safelight glow.
Light passes through the negative, projecting the latent image onto sensitive paper below.
Chemical reactions reveal the hidden image. Time and temperature are critical variables.
The fixer halts development and removes unexposed silver, making the image permanent.
[ Image Area ]
[ Image Area ]
[ Image Area ]
07 / DATA TABLE
Like a chemical timing chart. Clear headers, minimal lines, easy scanning in dim light.
| Film Stock | Developer | Dilution | Time | Temp |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tri-X 400 | D-76 | 1:1 | 9:30 | 20C |
| HP5 Plus | HC-110 | B | 6:00 | 20C |
| T-Max 100 | XTOL | 1:1 | 10:00 | 20C |
| Delta 3200 | DD-X | 1:4 | 12:00 | 20C |
| FP4 Plus | Rodinal | 1:50 | 13:00 | 20C |
08 / BADGES
Film canister labels and processing markers. Compact, distinct, functional.
09 / PRINCIPLES
Like waiting for an image to emerge in the developer, good design reveals itself slowly. Allow time for elements to develop their full impact.
The darkroom works under strict limitations. Embrace constraints: limited color, minimal light. What you cannot use becomes as important as what you can.
Every element contributes to the mood. The warm blacks, the red glow, the chemical references - they create an immersive experience that transcends mere interface.
A properly fixed print lasts generations. Design decisions should be intentional and lasting, not trendy or ephemeral. Build for archival quality.