How Alternative Processes was born
Alternative Processes was born in 2016 our of a student's bedroom. I’m Chiara, the founder, and like many other artists in this field, I suddenly found myself in my hometown, far from darkroom facilities, inspiring mentors, workshops and exhibitions. I decided to start writing about alternative photography — pages filled with years of notes, discoveries, and failures from my own experiments with historical and sustainable photographic techniques.
What started as a few shared resources quickly evolved into a global platform and community, dedicated to preserving, exploring, and teaching alternative photographic processes — making sure these fascinating techniques are accessible to everyone, everywhere.
What is Alternative Processes
Alternative Processes is a learning platform and creative community focused on historical, experimental, and sustainable photographic processes. We are a place to discover techniques, connect with artists, and get inspired — whether you're a complete beginner or a seasoned practitioner.
Where we are
Our organisation exists primarily online. This decision was driven by a passionate commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. We recognise that these processes are often confined to specific locations or circles. As I experience myself when I left London. By grounding ourselves in the digital realm, we've aimed to bridge these gaps and ensure that no matter where you resides—you can access resources, dedicated opportunities, and a like-minded community.
Our Resources
We have a complete online course about alternative processes, online live classes and downloadable guides, but we also occasionally run in-person workshops.
Our Values
At the heart of Alternative Processes is a simple belief: making alternative photographic processes accessible. We do so by talking about these techniques and sharing our research freely in our blog and to our mailing list, ensuring that knowledge is shared openly — no matter your background, location, education, or resources.
How you can support us
Everything you see on this platform — from free cheat-sheets to in-depth blog articles — is created with love and care by the founder, along with a growing community of passionate contributors.
The best way to support us is by enrolling in our Alternative Processes Academy. Inside the academy, you’ll dive into many processes, with a special focus on printing with light on different surfaces and materials.
Every enrolment directly supports the creation of new educational content, interviews, research, and curated exhibitions — and helps us keep this platform alive and growing. You can also support us by subscribing to our free newsletter, filled with inspiration, process tips, and creative ideas.
Press & Features
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Photography with Flowers and Coffee: What is Sustainable Photography All About? (Article by Alba Cid)
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An Overview of Alternative Photography Processes (Published by Shoot It With Film)
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Chlorophyll Printing with Alternative Processes (Published by REVOLOG)