A Two-part Workshop
Taught by Hogan Seidel
Join us for an engaging two-weekend workshop series that delves into the world of 16mm filmmaking with the bolex and color reversal processing with E-6!
What is the Bolex?
The 16mm Bolex is a motion picture camera introduced by Swiss company Paillard Bolex in the 1930s. Known for its robustness and mechanical reliability, it operates without a battery due to its spring-wound mechanism. The camera is equipped with features like interchangeable lenses and variable frame rates. Today, it remains popular among moving-image artists and experimental filmmakers for its ability to produce high-quality, distinctive analog images.
What is Ektachrome?
Ektachrome is a color reversal film made by Kodak, first introduced in the 1940s. Unlike color negatives, Ektachrome produces positive images directly on the film, suitable for viewing or projection. Known for its vivid colors and fine grain, it's popular for nature photography and other scenarios requiring high color accuracy. Discontinued in 2012 but revived in 2018 due to renewed interest in analog photography.
What is E-6 Chemistry?
E-6 chemistry is the process used to develop E-6 slide film or moving-image film into positive images. This multi-step procedure includes first developing, color developing, blix (a combination of bleach and fixer), and stabilizing. The process is known for precise color rendition and high-quality results.
Weekend 1: Introduction to 16mm Filmmaking with the Bolex
Course Date & Time: May 18th & 19th, 11am-4pm
Where: Northwest Film Forum (1515 12th Ave)
Immerse yourself in the craft of 16mm filmmaking during the first weekend of our workshop series. This hands-on Bolex workshop introduces the exciting possibilities of color 16mm analog film. Participants will spend two five-hour classes perfecting the essential skills to operate a 16mm Bolex camera, load and unload 100ft daylight spool film, expose color reversal Ektachrome film using a Sekonic light meter, and learn in-camera techniques unique to the Bolex.
Weekend 1 Objectives:
- Develop a solid understanding of the 16mm Bolex camera and its operation
- Learn the correct methods for loading and unloading film
- Experiment with the principles of film exposure and composition in color
- Gain practical experience in 16mm color filmmaking
- Shoot 100 feet of color reversal Ektachrome film to be processed in weekend 2
Weekend 2: Color Reversal Processing with E-6
Course Date & Time: May 25th & 26th, 11am-4pm
The second weekend offers an in-depth look at the E-6 processing technique for color reversal film. Participants will learn how to transform their Ektachrome film shot during the first weekend into vibrant, color positives. The workshop covers the step-by-step E-6 processing method, chemical handling, and best practices for achieving high-quality results.
Weekend 2 Objectives:
- Understand the E-6 processing method for color reversal film
- Learn about the chemicals and equipment necessary for E-6 processing
- Explore the technical aspects of developing color film
- Process the Ektachrome film shot during the first weekend
- Discuss the artistic and aesthetic qualities unique to color reversal film
Course Instructor:
Hogan Seidel (they/them) is a moving image artist based in Seattle, WA. They have taught experimental film, media arts, photography, interactive media, and art history at Emerson College, the University of Massachusetts Lowell, and Evergreen State College.
Website: hoganseidel.com
Price Structure:
The price structure is based on the cost of supplies, chemicals, and scanning for the 16mm Ektachrome. Two scholarship spots are available for this two-week workshop.
- $600: Support the learning community and help cover the full cost of the workshops.
- $550: Cover the full cost of participating in the workshops.
- $500: Join the workshops with the support of sponsoring organizations and fellow participants.