An enlarger is a device that projects a negative onto photographic paper. It is the heart of the darkroom. A light source sits at the top. Below it, the negative is held in a carrier. A lens focuses the image onto the paper below. The photographer adjusts the height to change the size of the print, and the aperture to control brightness and sharpness. The exposure is timed, often with a timer that switches the light on and off.

There are two main types. Condenser enlargers use a lens to focus light through the negative, producing high contrast and sharp grain. Diffusion enlargers use a diffusing material to scatter light, producing softer contrast and less pronounced grain. Both are used, and the choice is a matter of preference. Enlargers come in different formats, from 35mm to large format. The negative carrier must match the film format. Accessories include easels to hold the paper flat, grain focusers to check sharpness, and filters for variable contrast paper.

Parts of an enlarger

• Light source. Provides illumination.
• Negative carrier. Holds the film.
• Lens. Focuses the image.
• Column. Supports the head and allows height adjustment.
• Baseboard. Holds the paper and easel.

The enlarger is a simple machine. Its complexity lies in the hands of the photographer who uses it.