Discover the art of salt printing in hands-on photography workshop held in Hackney, East London. Whether you’re just starting out or deepening your skills, these salt printing workshops offer a practical, creative introduction to one of the earliest photographic printing techniques. Explore 19th-century methods using handmade paper, silver nitrate, contact negatives, and toning — all within a supportive studio environment.
Ian brings over three decades of photographic experience to his salt printing sessions, drawing on a background in fine-art portraiture, darkroom craft, and historic techniques. His approach combines careful craftsmanship with material sensitivity—walking you through each stage.
“The salt printing workshop you led recently was brilliant!”
— Angela Chalmers, Artist & Author of Creative Cyanotype
“I enjoyed it massively — great company, and such amazing opportunities to try things out and really get them done.”
— Kathryn, Workshop Participant
“Being able to learn from you all was such a gift.”
— Krystyna, Workshop Participant
With over 35 years of experience in fine art photography and historical printing methods, I offer salt printing tuition that balances technical awareness with creative exploration. My workshops are hands-on, process-driven, and rooted in a deep understanding of 19th-century technique.
Professional Recognition
Featured in international exhibitions and publications including The Lancashire Times, Studies in Photography (12-page artist feature), and Artist & Arists by AlternativePhotography.com.
Flexible learning
Studio-based in Hackney or online with multi-camera demonstrations
Salt printing is a tactile, hands-on process where perfection isn’t the goal. Unlike more controlled photographic methods, this technique embraces the beauty of imperfection and the natural unpredictability of materials.
This workshop is designed to give you the skills and confidence to continue practicing on your own. The aim isn’t to produce a flawless print on the day — but to learn the process, enjoy the experimentation, and appreciate the unique, characterful results it can produce.
Flexible Duration: 1, or 2 full days — tailored to your needs (weekend or mid-week)
Format: Hands-on, small-group workshop (max 5 participants)
Fine-art photographers and mixed-media artists.
Photographers curious about alternative and historical processes.
Creatives drawn to slow, material-led photography
Beginners and experienced practitioners alike — no prior darkroom experience required.
Salt printing workshops are usually a full day. Extended tuition is available if you want to explore toning or archival workflows.
No. You can work from demo negatives or bring digital files for making your own negatives.
Yes. We cover classic salt printing as well as gold toning methods to create toned and archival variations.
Delivery: In-studio at Hackney, London (E2 7SH)
Dates: Specific dates released upon registration.
With over 35 years of fine-art practice—and as a BA/MA photography lecturer at London Metropolitan University and Cambridge School of Art—I blend historical craft with modern workflows. You’ll leave with a full understanding of the process.
You can book for 1, or 2, days — depending on how deep you want to go.
Workshop Fees (at a glance)
One-to-One: £350/day (save up to £100 on multi-day bookings)
Groups: £290 per participant/day (extra savings for 2–3 day bookings)
Deposit: £100 per participant to secure your place
Full Fee Structure
One-to-One Tuition
£350 per day
Save £50 on 2 days, or £100 on 3 days
Small Group Workshops
£290 per participant per day (for 2–4 participants)
Save £50 on 2 days, or £100 on 3 days (per participant)
Deposit
A £100 deposit per participant secures your place; the balance is due 5 days before the workshop.
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Enquire & Register in the form below
Ready to dive into the blue? Spaces are limited.
Email: ian@ianphillipsmclaren.com
Salt printing is also available as a one-to-one course or class — perfect for artists and photographers seeking hands-on tuition in this foundational photographic process.