The DarkSlides Photography Collective
Ryan Gillespie
Washington, USA
Pacific Northwest
I seek to find rare moments of a scene that may never be experienced the same way again.
United by Tradition
The DarkSlides started when eight of us realized we were all doing the same thing—hauling 30 pounds of gear into the backcountry to expose single sheets of 4x5 film. We figured we might as well share what we've learned.
Large Format Mastery
4x5 and 8x10 view cameras, sheet film, dark cloths, and tripods that weigh more than some hikers' entire packs. We've been doing this long enough to know why it's worth the trouble.
Regional Expertise
Arizona deserts, Colorado alpine, California coast, Pacific Northwest—we shoot different terrain but compare notes on film, developers, and what works where.
Collaborative Spirit
We keep our own styles but share locations, techniques, and the occasional hard-won lesson about what not to do with expensive sheet film.
The DarkSlides Collective
Discover master large format landscape photographers across America
Collective Vision
Recent work from the group—different locations, different styles, same obsession with large format film
Capital Reef
by Tony Santo
Vestige of Rain
by Ben Horne
Upward Bound; Lower Antelope Canyon, AZ
by Scott Walton
Yucca and Pines
by Marty Quinn
Colorful Corner
by Chris Darnell
Golden Roots
by Loren Root
Snake Grass
by Ryan Gillespie
Morning Glow - Bryce Canyon
by Jay Tayag
Join the Conversation
The DarkSlides collective is built on the spirit of collaboration and shared knowledge. Connect with us to learn about workshops, exhibitions, and the craft of large format photography.
Workshops & Events
Join our collective workshops across the American West. Learn traditional large format techniques in stunning locations with master photographers.
View Upcoming WorkshopsExhibitions & Collections
Explore opportunities to view and acquire fine art prints from The DarkSlides collective. Museum-quality large format photography available for collectors.
Current Exhibitions