Push the limits of what a Polaroid can be in this full day Polaroid manipulation workshop. Polaroid film’s specific chemistry and physicality make it uniquely equipped for experimentation. Through a series of step-by-step demos, combined with plenty of time for free play, we will experiment with various methods for manipulating both instant cameras and developed polaroid photographs. Techniques include dry lifts, emulsion lifts, masking and filters, in-camera double exposures, and more. We will also explore some of the more imaginative ways artists have used these techniques. Participants will leave with an understanding of a wide range of new skills and plenty of inspiration for future experimentation. 

We will also go over safety measures, best practices, and suggestions for scanning, storing, and preserving your work.

All levels of experience are encouraged to sign up! All materials will be provided by the Halide Project, but please feel free to bring your own cameras and/or photos if you’d like.

Workshop Withdrawal Policy

We recommend choosing workshops with care after reading our withdrawal policy. If you have questions about any of our workshops, please contact dale@thehalideproject.org 

Instructor bio: 

Kara Khan is a photographer and installation artist working in Philadelphia. Her research based work is rooted in collaboration, experimentation, and direct action. For the last decade, Khan has run Pop Up Polaroid, a Photo Booth and portrait studio, where she has shared the magic of Polaroid photography through her work at events in Philadelphia and beyond. As a teaching artist she has shared the value of historic and alternative process through workshops and demos at schools, art institutions, and out of her studio. Her work has been shown around the country and published in the New York Times, Philadelphia Inquirer and Philadelphia Magazine, among others.

This workshop is generously sponsored by The Phillip and Edith Leonian Foundation.