Winter Seasonal Developers: Bitters, Root Herbs, and Decoctions

In the first of our seasonal developers sessions, we will be focusing on what’s growing below the ground, within the soil. Led by Hannah Fletcher and Randa Toko, we will forage for and learn about medicinal root herbs and bitters, and discuss how energy moves in plants over winter for their survival. Making extractions as both medicine for the body and chemistry for our photographs, we will cover in detail the extraction methods of boiling and microwaving, and understanding the effects of each method on the chemical composition and use.

The morning will include a botanical photowalk: taking photos, foraging, and learning as we walk through Ruskin Park. You will be introduced to the fundamentals of foraging in winter and collect the materials needed for our plant-based developer. In the afternoon, you will learn about the chemistry of the plants collected, their effects on the body, and their function in photochemistries. Finally, you will learn how to make your own plant-based developer, test the speed of the chemistry, and develop a 35mm film. We will finish up the day comparing the results afforded from different winter root herbs used and sampling medicinal root decoctions as a digestif. 

All materials provided. You are encouraged to bring along your own 35mm camera if you are familiar with using it and have tested that it works prior to the workshop.


Led by: Hannah Fletcher and Randa Toko.


Workshop location: Graces Mews, a new photography-led gallery in Camberwell, London, SE5 8JF.


Foraging location: Ruskin Park.

Plant focus: Horse radish/burdock/medicinal root herbs, bitters.



Edible component: Dandelion and burdock root infusion.



When: Saturday 14th February, 11.00–17.00pm (including 60 min lunch break)

Experience level: All levels welcome, we will not be covering how to use an analogue camera. So please make sure you are comfortable with this ahead of the session.

Age: Adult (18+).

Access: Graces Mews is wheelchair accessible, please get in touch to discuss specific needs.

If you are student/unwaged, please contact us for a discount code.

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Images in poster, copyright from top left clockwise:
© Celine Pilch
© Buster Grey Jung

© Edd Carr
© Josefina Astorga