Want to shoot tintypes, ambrotypes, or glass plate negatives using the WetPlate Process outside your studio? You need a portable DARKBOX.

I have been using the WetPlate process for over 18 years. Over the years I have tweaked the design to give a perfect mix of size and portability. This DarkBox kit includes the box and shroud. The box (closed) is roughly 34" long, 12" deep. When opened you will have close to 24" of workspace to place trays, bottles, etc needed for processing. It is able to be used on any flat surface. It is stable...in fact, I have never had one blow over in all the years I have been using them.

The shroud is designed to wrap around the darkbox, providing a lightproof (barring the red light from the window) environment to work the process in. The wraparound design also allows you to remove the shroud to allow it to dry once your session is over. (No more smelly/damp fabric to deal with the next session.). Simply removed it and hang it to dry.

The fixed (non-sliding) red window is made from stained glass...and is very stable and long lasting. No need to worry if it is fading as you do with plexiglass and litho.

Please allow a 4-8 week lead time for construction. The box comes unpainted.

Want it painted? Basic colors are available. Painting the darkbox adds $50 and at least 1 week to the production time. Painting is done in 2-3 coats and time is needed for proper drying between coats.

The darkbox and shroud will be shipped in separate packaging. Sorry, no out of country shipping for the darkbox or shroud.

Need just a shroud?

I can make my standard shroud for you. Shrouds are 2 layers and sufficiently lightproof. The outer layer will be black, gray, or brown and have a red or yellow liner. A drawstring is used to secure the shroud AROUND your darkbox. If you decide to staple your shroud to the inside of your darkroom...you can do that.

Need a stand?

This stand is built to be used for my portable darkboxes. It's basic design is a tripod with a platform top. Very stable when the legs are splayed.

I set up the stand, spreading the legs out till they stop then place the darkbox on top and gently pull the rear legs apart a little more. This settles the stand and firms up the setup.

I've not had one kick/blow/tip over in over 16 years of using this design. The darkbox remains steady throughout an active day of shooting.

Again, this is for the STAND ONLY. Some assembly required. Instructions will be sent.

Comes unpainted. Add $20 for paint.

Will ship in 2 packages (legs in one package, platform in another).

The price for the stand (including shipping within the continental US) is $220.

Please allow 4-8 weeks for construction.

Shipping within the continental US is included. Overseas Shipping NOT available. Shipping to Hawaii, Alaska, and other US territories may be additional.

Disclaimer: I build wetplate equipment in addition to my full-time job and family responsibilities. Build times are an estimate. If a specific date is required for completion, please get in touch and we can discuss to see if I will be able to meet your need by date.

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Portable Darkbox Equipment