In a world where digital reigns supreme, a small group of passionate photographers dared to dream big. Their vision? To bring back the magic of analogue photography and create a haven for like-minded artists in the heart of West Oakland. And so, Underdog Film Lab was born.
The Rise of a Film Lab
Underdog Film Lab's story began in 2017 when four photographers, Brian Brooks, Jesse Hitchens, Dirk Hatch, and Matt Osborn, embarked on a seemingly impossible mission. At a time when film photography was fading and rental prices were soaring, they envisioned a space dedicated to analogue lovers. Their journey started in an old flatiron building in West Oakland, and two years later, they expanded to a larger location on 16th Street, a testament to their unwavering commitment.
A Community Hub
What sets Underdog Film Lab apart is its ability to foster a vibrant community. Vince Donovan, a renowned photographer and co-executive director of the East Bay Photo Collective, observes that Underdog has created a unique platform for photographers to connect, share knowledge, and support each other. "People are sharing knowledge, supporting each other, encouraging each other," he says. This sense of community has become a hallmark of Underdog, attracting photographers from all walks of life.
The Analogue Renaissance
Interestingly, the timing of Underdog's opening coincided with a resurgence of interest in analogue photography, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. People sought creative outlets and a sense of community, and photography provided a platform for human connection. Additionally, in an age dominated by AI, analogue photography offers a refreshing contrast. As Donovan puts it, "An AI image has no human meaning. It doesn't reflect our joy, our sadness, or our experiences. That's why we do art—it's that human experience."
The Power of Film
Brian Brooks, one of the lab's owners, has been a photographer since the 1980s and is a staunch advocate for film. He believes in its longevity and resilience, citing its ability to withstand technological failures. "If a hard drive crashes, you can rescan this," he says, pointing to film negatives. "When the lights go out, you can still see the image." This resilience is a key reason why many photographers, like Carson Burns, opt for film. Burns appreciates the nostalgic quality film brings to his work.
A Comprehensive Service
Underdog Film Lab offers a comprehensive range of services, from processing film to renting studio space and providing archival services. They even have vintage equipment from Europe, like the Reframas C-41, which ensures better quality control and prevents cross-contamination. Brooks emphasizes that the lab's owners each bring their own specialized knowledge and discipline, offering a wealth of expertise to their customers.
A Tactile Art Practice
For customers like Emma Geiger, the slowness and tactile nature of film photography bring a unique joy. She appreciates not having to learn new digital interfaces or deal with glowing screens. Camille Braswell, another regular at Underdog, believes it's important to keep this tactile art practice alive, ensuring a future rich with genuine artistic creation.
A West Oakland Institution
Underdog Film Lab has become an integral part of the West Oakland community. Brooks highlights the team's commitment to staying in West Oakland, a neighborhood known for its industrious, hardworking, and creative spirit. The lab has built strong connections with local businesses and artists, supporting and promoting their work. "It's your art, your money," Brooks says, reflecting the lab's commitment to community and artistic freedom.
A Haven for Analogue Lovers
Underdog Film Lab is more than just a photo lab; it's a haven for analogue lovers, a community hub, and a testament to the enduring power of film photography. Whether you're a seasoned photographer or a novice, Underdog welcomes you with open arms. As Brooks puts it, "No dogma. Come on in. If you come here, you're gonna get love." A truly inspiring story of passion, community, and the enduring appeal of analogue.
