Precision analog photography tools. Minimalist design. Built to last.
Welcome to NordicLab — a channel dedicated to the craft and science of analog photography.
Here, I dive deep into film photography, color darkroom printing, black-and-white printing,
and the full process of working with photographic film — from shooting and developing to printing and archiving.
I build and repair darkroom equipment, improve film processors, scan film, test chemicals,
and explore how to get the best results from analog workflows.
The main focus of this channel is color film photography and color printing in the darkroom,
using RA-4 and other traditional processes. I also share my work in black-and-white printing,
DIY improvements for enlargers and processors, and how to maintain and restore vintage analog gear.
Whether you’re looking for inspiration, technical guidance, or just a deeper connection with the physical
process of making photographs — NordicLab is the place for film photographers, darkroom printers, and
anyone passionate about analog image-making.
OpenTank — Open-Source Dip-and-Dunk Film Developing Tank
The Problem with Existing Film Tanks If you develop film in a darkroom, you know the frustration: almost every tank on the market leaks chemicals from the top when inverted. Paterson, AP, and most other systems all have this issue. The only exception is Jobo — but it comes at a cost. Inversion agitation is inconvenient, messy, and completely incompatible with automated film development setups where precise chemical dosing matters.
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OpenReel project
Open Hardware Reels: A Better Way to Develop Film I have designed a new type of open-source film developing reel specifically optimized for 3D printing. While many designs exist online, most are not tailored for home manufacturing, leading to failed prints or poor functionality. These reels are fully compatible with the standard systems like Paterson system and can be printed at home using common materials like PETG without supports and from two pieces.
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35mm to 120 loader jig
Purpose The tool allows users to wind standard 35mm film into 120 backing paper. This enables shooting 35mm film in medium format cameras to achieve a wide-angle, panoramic effect that includes the film sprockets.
Design and Materials The main body parts are 3D-printed using PLA for stiffness. Functional components like the lock/brake and shaft are printed from PETG to provide necessary flexibility and prevent cracking. The assembly is screwless, relying on friction fits and snapping mechanisms.
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Paterson Rapid Loader
Purpose The main purpose of this tool is to create a better way to load film onto existing Paterson reels, and also to take the first steps toward an automatic loading mechanism for a Film Development Machine project. Because I decided to work in step-by-step iterations, this is a good start — a mechanical prototype that resembles the loading mechanism planned for the final machine.
Materials and Production It is preferable to print from PETG, ABS, or other materials that are less brittle and more flexible. The parts have flex points and clicking mechanisms for film holding and for paper winding in the case of the 120 jig. Both tools print in 2–3 hours without supports and are designed to be printable with most modern print technologies available on the market.
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