Vibrate Film Lab: Ghana’s New Haven for Analog Photography Unveiled by Surf Ghana Collective
In the 1950s, Ghana’s film photography scene burst to life, driven by pioneers like James Barnor and Felicia Abban. From Barnor’s Ever Young Studio to Abban’s trailblazing work as Ghana’s first professional female photographer, they captured a nation stepping into independence with analog cameras and darkroom magic. But as decades passed, digital technology, economic shifts, and changing cultural tides dimmed that vibrant flame, leaving film photography a quiet art—until now. Enter Surf Ghana Collective, whose new Vibrate Film Lab is reigniting the spark, bringing analog photography back to Ghana’s creative forefront.
In the heart of Accra, a new creative hub is emerging, one that rewinds the clock on photography to celebrate the raw, tactile beauty of analog film. On March 17, 2024, Surf Ghana Collective proudly introduced Vibrate Film Lab, a dedicated space for film processing, darkroom printing, and visual archiving. Nestled within the vibrant ecosystem of Vibrate Space, this initiative is more than just a facility—it’s a bold step toward empowering Ghana’s photographers, archivists, and visual storytellers, both seasoned and aspiring.
The launch came with a grand opening event that was an immersive experience for attendees. Visitors stepped inside the lab for a guided tour, witnessing first hand its capabilities in developing and processing film.
A Space for Creation and Connection
For Sandy Alibo, the visionary founder of Surf Ghana, Vibrate Film Lab is a dream realized—a sanctuary where creativity meets opportunity. “We are building more than a film lab; we are creating a space where photographers and archivists can experiment, collaborate, and sustain their practice,” Alibo explains. Beyond filling a critical gap in Ghana’s creative landscape, the lab is set to generate jobs and inspire a new generation of image-makers. In its inaugural year alone, it aims to train 100 students, democratizing access to analog photography for Ghanaian youth.
The lab’s ambitions stretch far beyond its opening day. Year-round programming will include workshops on film techniques, darkroom printing, and alternative processes, alongside residencies for photographers to hone their craft. Community exhibitions will spotlight lab-developed projects, and mentorship programs will pair emerging talents with industry veterans, fostering a cycle of growth and innovation.
The Timeless Allure of Film
In an era dominated by digital screens and instant uploads, Vibrate Film Lab champions the slower, more deliberate art of film photography. “We talk a lot about digital progress, but film photography has a timeless quality that allows for deeper storytelling,” says David Nana Opoku Ansah, Studio Manager and Curator at Vibrate Space. Known as Cozyshrt, he sees the lab as a bridge between past and present, offering a professional playground for experimentation with film and darkroom techniques.
Yussif N.Q. Solomon, the lab’s technician, echoes this sentiment, highlighting its role in accessibility. “For many in Ghana, film photography and darkroom printing have been out of reach,” he says. “With this space, we’re changing that—not just by developing film, but by sharing knowledge, hosting workshops, and ensuring the craft is sustained.” For Solomon, the lab is a game-changer, breaking down barriers that have long kept analog photography an elusive pursuit.
Photographer and co-curator Stephanie Ewurama adds a cultural lens to the project. “Ghana has a rich visual culture, and film photography plays a crucial role in preserving our narratives,” she says. “This lab will allow more artists to tell their stories with depth, patience, and authenticity—while also learning the art of printing their own work by hand in a darkroom.” For Ewurama, the hands-on process of analog photography is a way to honor and elevate Ghana’s storytelling traditions.
A Movement in Motion
Vibrate Film Lab isn’t just a room with equipment—it’s a movement rooted in exploration, education, and preservation. By providing the tools and training to master analog photography, Surf Ghana is ensuring that this art form not only survives but thrives in a modern context. Whether you’re a professional photographer seeking a residency, a student eager to learn, or simply a lover of visual art, the lab invites you to join in its mission.
As the doors of Vibrate Film Lab swing open, they usher in a new chapter for Ghana’s and West African creative community—one frame at a time.