10 best darkroom safelights

Darkroom safelights are an essential component in traditional film photography darkrooms. These lights emit a specific color of light that is safe for photographic materials, particularly light-sensitive film and photo paper. The purpose of a safelight is to allow photographers to work in low light conditions without exposing the photosensitive materials to light that would ruin the image. Here are key points related to darkroom safelights:

  1. Purpose:

    • Safelights are used in a darkroom environment to provide illumination without affecting light-sensitive materials. They allow photographers to handle film, load it into developing tanks, and work with photo paper without prematurely exposing them to light.
  2. Wavelength:

    • Safelights emit light in a specific wavelength range that does not significantly affect the photosensitive emulsion on film or paper. The most common colors used for safelights are red, amber, or orange.
  3. Color Filters:

    • Safelights often use color filters to achieve the desired wavelength. Red is the most common color because it has a longer wavelength and is less likely to affect photosensitive materials. Amber and orange filters are also used in certain situations.
  4. Compatibility:

    • The choice of safelight color depends on the type of photographic material being used. Different films and papers have varying sensitivities to different wavelengths of light, so it's essential to choose a safelight that is compatible with the materials in use.
  5. Intensity Control:

    • Safelights usually have adjustable intensity controls to regulate the amount of light emitted.This allows photographers to create a comfortable working environment without risking overexposure of their materials.
  6. Placement:

    • Safelights are strategically placed in the darkroom to provide even illumination without exposing any part of the workspace to direct light. They are typically mounted on the ceiling or walls.
  7. Darkroom Design:

    • Darkrooms are designed to minimize light leaks, ensuring that the safelight is the primary source of illumination. Light-tight doors, light seals, and other measures are taken to maintain a controlled working environment.
  8. Film and Paper Handling:

    • When working under safelight conditions, photographers must handle film and paper quickly and efficiently. Prolonged exposure, even under a safelight, can still impact the quality of the final image.
  9. Switching to Total Darkness:

    • In certain stages of the photographic process, such as loading film onto reels or exposing photo paper, photographers may need to work briefly in total darkness before returning to safelight conditions.

In summary, darkroom safelights are a critical tool in traditional film photography darkrooms. They provide a controlled and low-light environment that allows photographers to handle light-sensitive materials without prematurely exposing them. The choice of safelight color and proper darkroom design are crucial considerations for maintaining the integrity of the photographic process.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best darkroom safelights on the market
  

CPM Delta 1 3511112 35110 Brightlab Junior Safelight 11W Universal Red Bulb

Based on 53 reviews Check latest price

Product description

11 watt lamp fits any standard 110 volt lamp Fixture. Universal Red color makes it safe for standard photographic and litho-orthochromatic materials, contact Duplicating and diffusion transfer materials.

  • Delta 1 brightlab Junior universal Red safelight

User questions & answers

Question: Hello, I would like to know hoy many hours of life is this product expected to last? Thank you
Answer: Yes they work both ways
Question: Where is this made/manufactured
Answer: No need to use sos pad and oil, just make sure you keep them nice and dry.Best care would be to hand wash then towel dry, but even humidity moisture will rust it.
Question: can you use for xrays
Answer: China
Question: is this bright enough to read by
Answer: Probably not. Unless you want long, thin, not noodle sized pasta. You will get better results with a veggie noodle spiralizer
Question: can this pump remove sewage water
Answer: No,Made in China.
Question: what needs to be done to draft water from a swimming pool
Answer: I am right-handed and therefore cannot answer your question from experience. But since the most effective way to use this peeled is up and down, from you to away from you, it might work for you. I find it especially useful for carrots using that kind of safe (away from you) stroke. As a left hander, you might have insight into this.
Question: parts for this pump ??? NorthStar Semi-Trash Pump - 2in. Ports, 10,010 GPH, 5/8in. Solids Capacity, 160cc Honda GX160 Engine by NorthStar
Answer: Yes,all are stainless steel.
Question: Why does it reference 230 volts if it is gas operated
Answer: Yes,it has two cutting sides that can be cut back and forth.
Question: Were can I purchase parts for North star 3"semi trash water pump
Answer: Hello, I purchased the Small Lion and it's about 3.5" x 6.5...my 2 dogs love it, love it, love it! My dogs are mid to large size (55 lbs) but I felt the small size was better for carrying in their mouths. The latex is phenomenal...imagine, it's been quite a while that I ordered them and they're still intact yet my dogs play with them regularly! Hope this helps with making your decision.

Product features

High Performance, Long Lasting Pumps

Durable and Efficient

The NorthStar Extended Run Semi-Trash Pump is a versatile workhorse ready to tackle a variety of jobs. To ensure the best performance, longer life and smoother operation, we gave this heavy-duty water pump a cast iron impeller and volute to increase pump life in semi-trash situations. We also added a multi-directional discharge that puts fluids where you want them.

Handles the Toughest Jobs

The high-end silicone carbide mechanical seals in this NorthStar Extended Run Semi-Trash Pump are harder, tougher and stronger than common aluminum oxide seals and have superior resistance to corrosion, wear and heat so you can use it in all kinds of situations. It also has our cutting-edge check valves that hold a prime when the pump is not running to quickly get you back up and pumping.

Proven and Reliable Power

Industry Leading Engineering

Because you need a pump that you can rely on, turning to the world's largest manufacturer of engines to power our NorthStar Extended Run Semi-Trash Pump was an obvious choice. The Honda GX200 engine gives you the industry-leading fuel efficiency, quiet operation and most importantly, power that you need to get the job done.

Easy to Work With

The precision-engineered components that come together to form this NorthStar Extended Run Semi-Trash Pump 's Honda GX200 engine let it run with less vibration and less noise, so they're a lot better to be around than some other engines. They're also built to last with minimal maintenance, so you'll stay on the job with less trouble.

Setting the Standard for Quality, Performance and Value

Over 1000 Hours of Testing

No one builds water pumps better. And no one tests them more. Northern Tool + Equipment engineers put each NorthStar water pump component through a series of extensive, real-world procedures in our Faribault, MN testing facility and in the field. Each pump design is endurance-tested nonstop for over 1000 hours. Before you put your pump to the test for the first time, we already have.

Setting the Standard for Over 20 Years

From the very beginning, our goal was simple: Build the best water pump on the market. The result is a NorthStar water pump that outclasses the competition in quality, performance, reliability and value. For over two decades, NorthStar has set the standard. Professionals and do-it-yourselfers trust the superior quality of NorthStar to get the job done right the first time, every time.

Features + Benefits

  • Provides more than 8 hours of continuous pumping without the need to refuel
  • Fully welded industrial 1 1/4in. steel roll cage with durable black wrinkle TGIC polyester electrostatic finish holds up to jobsite abuse
  • Long-life silicon carbide mechanical seal resists corrosion, wear and heat better than a standard seal
  • V-mount engine and pump isolation mounts for less vibration and extended life
  • Silicon carbide seals are 2 times harder, 15% tougher, and 50% stronger than common aluminum oxide seals
  • Long-lasting cast iron impeller and volute reduce vibration for semi-trash applications
  • All sheet metal parts are cut using a state of the art CO2 laser
  • Uses standard NPT threads for attachment flexibility
  • Utilizes a check valve to hold a prime while the pump is not running
  • Self-priming
  • Optional wheel kit (Item# 109172) also available

High Performance, Long Lasting Pumps

Durable and Efficient

The NorthStar Semi-Trash Water Pump is a versatile workhorse ready to tackle a variety of jobs. To ensure the best performance, longer life and smoother operation, we gave this heavy-duty water pump a cast iron impeller and volute to increase pump life in semi-trash situations. We also added a multi-directional discharge that puts fluids where you want them.

Handles the Toughest Jobs

The high-end silicone carbide mechanical seals in this NorthStar Semi-Trash Water Pump are harder, tougher and stronger than common aluminum oxide seals and have superior resistance to corrosion, wear and heat so you can use it in all kinds of situations. It also has our cutting-edge check valves that hold a prime when the pump is not running to quickly get you back up and pumping.

Proven and Reliable Power

Industry Leading Engineering

Because you need a pump that you can rely on, turning to the world's largest manufacturer of engines to power our NorthStar Semi-Trash Pump was an obvious choice. The Honda GX160 engine gives you the industry-leading fuel efficiency, quiet operation and most importantly, power that you need to get the job done.

Easy to Work With

The precision-engineered components that come together to form this NorthStar Semi-Trash Pump's Honda GX160 engine let it run with less vibration and less noise, so they're a lot better to be around than some other engines. They're also built to last with minimal maintenance, so you'll stay on the job with less trouble.

Built Tough

Because jobsites can be dangerous and accidents happen, we knew you'd want to protect your pump. This is why it is has a fully welded rugged steel roll cage. It gives the pump maximum protection at the jobsite and while transporting. The wide base gives rock-solid stability.

Setting the Standard for Quality, Performance and Value

Over 1000 Hours of Testing

No one builds water pumps better. And no one tests them more. Northern Tool + Equipment engineers put each NorthStar water pump component through a series of extensive, real-world procedures in our Faribault, MN testing facility and in the field. Each pump design is endurance-tested nonstop for over 1000 hours. Before you put your pump to the test for the first time, we already have.

Setting the Standard for Over 20 Years

From the very beginning, our goal was simple: Build the best water pump on the market. The result is a NorthStar water pump that outclasses the competition in quality, performance, reliability and value. For over two decades, NorthStar has set the standard. Professionals and do-it-yourselfers trust the superior quality of NorthStar to get the job done right the first time, every time.

Features + Benefits

  • Multidirectional discharge puts fluids where you want them
  • Strong 23ft. max. suction lift
  • FCD45 cast iron impeller and volute last longer for semi-trash operations
  • Silicon carbide seals are 2 times harder, 15% tougher, and 50% stronger than common aluminum oxide seals
  • Uses standard NPT threads for attachment flexibility
  • Utilizes a check valve to hold a prime while the pump is not running
  • Fully welded industrial 1in. steel roll cage with durable black powder-coat finish holds up to jobsite abuse
  • Full frame protection
  • All sheet metal parts are cut using a state-of-the-art CO2 laser
  • Includes FREE strainer

LegacyPro Red Safelight Red Darkroom Safelight, Black (62012)

Based on 6 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The LegacyPro darkroom safelight is the ideal lamp for your darkroom. It is a small, economical unit with adjustable illumination and tilting head. This safelight has a sturdy metal frame, ABS plastic side panels and its filter allows for even illumination. Operating instructions check your photographic material’s instruction sheet to confirm you have the correct color of safelight. Install your safelight no less than four feet away from your enlarger and developing trays. Test each material, under your safelight conditions, periodically. Paper sensitivity and filter quality can shift over time. In case of fogging, adjust the illumination of the safelight or the distance The safelight is from light sensitive material. Warnings darkrooms should be dark. Too many safe lights or safe lights that are too close to the material can ruin light sensitive material. Do not mix red and OC safe lights in a darkroom as this can fog Light sensitive materials. Bulb replacement the LegacyPro darkroom safelight comes with protective screw hole covers that need to be removed to replace the safelight bulb. Remove each screw hole cover (from the side opposite the adjustment dial and on/off switch) by pressing a thumb tack into the center of each one and tilting to the side to pop out and expose the screw. The screw hole covers, installed for safe warehousing and transportation, can be discarded. Replace with a 15 watt safelight bulb.

  • The ideal lamp for your darkroom. It is a small, economical unit with adjustable illumination and tilting head
  • This safelight has a sturdy metal frame, ABS plastic side panels and its filter allows for even illumination
  • Paper sensitivity and filter quality can shift over time

User questions & answers

Question: Does this include a bulb
Answer: Thank you for your question. The size of 21" diameter is accurate. Our website is incorrect, and we will update it. Thank you for pointing that out.

CPM Delta Safelight Jumbo Bulb 25w Red

CPM Delta 1

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Large 25W globe, screws into any ordinary light socket. 360° illumination. Three times brighter than an ordinary safelight. Full "UL" Approval.

  • Delta 1 Safelight Universal Red

eTone Darkroom Safe Light Lamp E27 LED Screw Mouth Wall Light 360 Degree Desk Light with Switch

Based on 32 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Material: high quality plastic shell with led light



Package include: 1x darkroom safe light with lamp



Note: please keep film or paper away from this darkroom safelight more than 3-4 meter avoid the film and paper turn gray or black.



Parameter: 3w 110v light bulb.



Feature: you can adjust to any angle to achieve best lighting effect via the tube that connect bulb and switch.



Attention:

1.The safelight is used for film developing in darkroom.

2.The film should not be exposed under safelight directly.

3.The film should not be rolled into the spiral reel of the developing tank under safelight, otherwise the film surface will become gray for light-sensitive, and it is recommended to complete the film loading operation in a darkroom bag or darkroom.

  • Material: high quality plastic shell with LED light
  • Package include: 1x safe light base +1x lamp
  • Note: 1) please keep paper away from this darkroom safelight more than 3-4 meter avoid the paper turn gray or black. 2)The film should not be exposed under safelight directly.3) The film should not be rolled into the spiral reel of the developing tank under safelight, otherwise the film surface will become gray for light-sensitive, and it is recommended to complete the film loading operation in a darkroom bag or darkroom.
  • Parameter: 5w 110v light bulb.
  • Feature: you can adjust to any angle to achieve best lighting effect via the tube that connect bulb and switch.

User questions & answers

Question: Can the bulb be replaced with a higher wattage lamp? Standard lamp base
Answer: The product photos abd description are accurate and your rods should work perfectly. I am unsure about your question about "sold by themselves. What you see is what you get!
Question: Can this be used for black and white film processing
Answer: It looks like it’s been sealed but I don’t think I would put it outside

Darkroom Safelight Bulb for The Photographic and Medical Darkrooms. Set of 2.

Product description

Darkroom SAFELIGHT BULB provides a safe working glow in the medical and photographic darkrooms. Comes in set of 2.

Darkroom Safelight Bulbs for a Safe Working Glow in Photographic or Medical Darkrooms

Based on 10 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Darkroom Photographic / Medical Darkroom Safelight Bulb. Provides a SAFE working Flow in the Photographic Darkrooms and the Medical Darkrooms. Set of 2 Red Bulbs.

  • SAFELIGHT BULBS SET OF 2

User questions & answers

Question: Are these incandescent or LED bulbs
Answer: Yes it fits and there was even space for a dog bed
Question: Anyone else had experience using these bulbs in a darkroom
Answer: This corner rack can accommodate fly fishing rods.
Question: Are this bulbs O.K. for X-ray dark room
Answer: It should hold golf clubs.

DARKROOM SAFELIGHT NO. OA Filter in Orig. Box

Product description

KODAK DARKROOM SAFELIGHT NO. OA FILTER IN ORIG. BOX IN ORIGINAL BOXES. IT IS 5.5 INCHES IN DIAMETER. LIKE NEW

  • DARKROOM SAFELIGHT
  • NO. OA FILTER

CPM Delta Safelight Jumbo Bulb 25w OC Amber

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Large 25W globe, screws into any ordinary light socket. 360° illumination. Three times brighter than an ordinary safelight. Full "UL" Approval.

DARKROOM SAFELIGHT FILTER, ORANGE, 3 1/2 X 4 3/4 INCHES

Product description

Ultima Darkroom Safe Light Filter 3.5" x 4"3/4 in original box. New old stock without wear. May have a little dust on it from being in stock.

  • safelight filter

DARKROOM ENLARGER SAFELIGHT FILTER

Product description

DARKROOM ENLARGER SAFELIGHT FILTER. ITEM MEASURES 2.5" X 2.5" IN SIZE. IT IS IN GOOD CONDITION WITH SOME LIGHT SCRATCHES AND SCUFF, BUT NO MAJOR DAMAGE.

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