VSU invites community to explore pinhole photography April 26
Published 2:53 pm Thursday, April 16, 2026
VALDOSTA — In celebration of Worldwide Pinhole Photography Day, Valdosta State University invites campus and community members of all ages to explore the art and science of photography in its most fundamental form from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, April 26, in Fine Arts Building Room 2056. This event is free of charge.
Hosted by the Department of Art & Design, VSU’s Worldwide Pinhole Photography Day event offers participants a unique opportunity to build their own pinhole camera, capture original images, and develop their photographs in a traditional darkroom setting. It is designed to inspire creativity, curiosity, and a deeper appreciation for the origins of photographic technology.
Pinhole photography, which uses a simple light-tight box with a tiny aperture instead of a lens, dates back centuries and demonstrates the core principles of how images are formed. Despite its simplicity, the process yields striking, often dreamlike images that are sure to captivate Worldwide Pinhole Photography Day attendees of all ages.
“Our goal is to make photography accessible and engaging for everyone,” said Jim Reiman, assistant professor of photography and graphic design at VSU.
By guiding participants through the process of building a camera, taking a photograph, and developing it by hand, this special event offers a rare tactile experience that connects art, science, and history.
No prior experience is necessary. Photographic paper and chemistry will be provided by VSU’s Department of Art & Design. Participants should bring a light-tight container — cookie or tea tins, shoe boxes, empty paint cans, etc. — to convert into a pinhole camera. Those who wish to create a DSLR pinhole cap should bring their own compatible body cap, but this is not necessary.
