Vibrate Film Lab
Surf Ghana Collective introduces Vibrate Film Lab. A pioneering analogue photo lab (darkroom) initiative in Ghana. Our mission is to revive and promote the art of analogue photography, which currently lacks presence in the region, despite its global resurgence.
Our Vision: Empowering Through Art and Culture
Vibrate Lab seeks to ignite a cultural movement that empowers young creatives in Ghana through the art of analog photography. As an initiative of Surf Ghana Collective, Vibrate Lab builds upon our legacy of using sports, music, and art to create meaningful opportunities for youth.
Our mission is to bridge a crucial gap in the Ghanaian creative landscape by offering specialized film development, darkroom printing, and educational programs—all while preserving and celebrating the rich tradition of analog photography.
Inspired by the pioneering work of photographers like Malick Sidibé and Seydou Keïta in Mali, as well as Philip Kwame Apagya and James Barnor in Ghana, we recognize how analog photography has historically captured the essence of West African identity, culture, and everyday life.
While Sidibé and Keïta’s black-and-white portraiture defined an era of self-expression and modernity, Barnor was a leading pioneer of color photography in the region, bridging the transition between colonial and post-colonial Ghana with vibrant, forward-looking imagery.
By creating a space where creativity and community intersect, Vibrate Lab aims to nurture the next generation of visual storytellers, equipping them with the skills and resources to continue this legacy.
Through workshops, residencies, and collaborative projects, we strive to cultivate an environment where young photographers can explore the limitless possibilities of film, ensuring its relevance and impact for years to come.
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Services Designed for All Creatives and storytellers
At Vibrate Film Lab, we provide a comprehensive range of services tailored to emerging and professional photographers, as well as photography enthusiasts. Our expertise spans meticulous film development, traditional darkroom printing, and innovative alternative photography techniques that push creative boundaries. We are dedicated to creating awareness and showcasing the endless possibilities of analog photography as a medium.
Through high-quality film development and scanning, we ensure that every captured moment is preserved with care and precision. Beyond technical services, we offer dynamic workshops and masterclasses covering everything from photography fundamentals to advanced darkroom techniques.
Additionally, our artist residencies and exchange programs foster cultural exchange and collaboration, creating a vibrant space for both local and international artists to connect, experiment, and inspire one another.
Film Processing
35mm & 120 Film Developing (C-41 & B&W Only)
We offer high-quality development for color negative (C-41) and black-and-white films, ensuring precise tonal range and sharp details. Our processing maintains the integrity of each frame, making it ideal for both professional and personal projects.
Scanning & Digitalization
High-Resolution Film Scanning (Negatives & Positives)
We provide high-resolution scans for 35mm and 120 film, ensuring excellent detail, dynamic range, and accurate color reproduction. Scans are delivered in multiple resolutions, ready for printing, archiving, or digital editing.
Photo & Document Scanning
We digitize old prints, polaroids, and important documents with high-resolution scanning, preserving memories and artwork with precision. Ideal for archival projects, exhibitions, or personal collections.
Workshops & Community Engagement
Film Developing Workshops (Hands-On Training)
A practical workshop teaching participants how to develop their own film using both C-41 (color negative) and black-and-white processing. Topics covered include:
- Loading film onto reels and using developing tanks
- Chemistry mixing and development times
- Push/pull processing techniques for creative control
- Best practices for drying, cutting, and storing negatives
- Troubleshooting common development issues
Each participant will develop their own roll of film under expert guidance and leave with their processed negatives.
Cyanotype Printing Workshop
Explore cyanotype printing, a historic alternative photography process that creates beautiful blue-toned prints. This workshop covers:
- Mixing and applying light-sensitive chemicals
- Contact printing using film negatives or objects
- Sun exposure techniques for different effects
- Washing, drying, and finishing prints for long-term preservation
Participants will experiment with their own cyanotype prints and learn how to integrate this technique into their creative practice.
Educating and Inspiring a New Generation
Education and community building are at the core of Vibrate Lab’s mission. We strive to inspire the next generation of photographers through hands-on workshops, immersive darkroom experiences, and meaningful engagements with seasoned professionals.
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Film Photography as a Cultural Archival and Preservation Tool
As part of its long-term vision, Vibrate Film Lab will offer year-round programming designed to nurture creativity, preserve photographic heritage, and foster artistic growth. Our initiatives include:
Workshops on film photography techniques, film processing, darkroom printing, and alternative photographic methods.
Residencies that provide photographers with the time, space, and resources to deepen their practice and create new work.
Community Exhibitions showcasing projects developed within the lab, celebrating diverse narratives and visual storytelling.
Mentorship Programs that connect emerging talents with experienced professionals, fostering knowledge exchange and creative collaboration.
A Social Enterprise with Lasting Impact
Vibrate Film Lab is more than a creative hub—it is a social enterprise dedicated to fostering educational and economic opportunities for young Ghanaians.
By providing affordable film development services and hands-on educational programs, we nurture emerging talent and equip photographers with essential professional skills.
Our sustainable business model reinvests revenue from services, workshops, and collaborations back into the community, creating jobs and strengthening Ghana’s creative ecosystem.
We aim to actively engage with brands, galleries, and cultural institutions to expand opportunities, facilitate knowledge exchange, and amplify the reach of analog photography. Through this approach, Vibrate Film Lab not only empowers creatives but also
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Fostering a Thriving Creative Community
By offering a dedicated space for collaboration, inspiration, and learning, Vibrate Film Lab is set to become a global center for photography innovation.
Our initiative not only benefits the local community by providing access to professional services and educational opportunities but also attracts international talent, contributing to Ghana’s cultural and creative dialogue.
With a focus on sustainability, inclusivity, and artistic excellence, Vibrate Film Lab aims to shape a more equitable and dynamic future for creatives in Ghana and beyond.
Meet Our Team: Passion, Expertise & Vision
At Vibrate Film Lab, our team is a dynamic blend of experienced professionals and passionate creatives, all dedicated to fostering Ghana’s analog photography scene.
Sandy Alibo
Founder of Surf Ghana Collective, leads with a strategic vision, leveraging her experience in building creative communities and cultural initiatives.
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David Nana Opoku Ansah
Our curator and a renowned Ghanaian photographer, brings artistic insight and industry knowledge, shaping the lab’s creative direction.
Yussif Nii Quao-Solomon
Our skilled lab technician, ensures the highest quality in film development and printing while strengthening connections within the analog photography community.
Stephanie Daniels
Our coordinator, expertly oversees exhibitions, workshops, and educational programs, expanding the lab’s cultural impact.
