Summer Seasonal Developers: Fruits, Seeds, and Tinctures

In the third seasonal session of the year we will be focusing on fruits and seeds, and following the seasonal direction of plant energy. Led by Randa Toko, we will forage for ripening summer fruits, seeds, and invasive species for seasonal herbal remedies. Making tinctures as both medicine for the body and chemistry for our photographs, we will cover the method of ethanol extraction for film developers, understanding the effects of this process on chemical composition and utility.

In the morning we will be foraging around Hackney Marshes looking for the abundance of summer fruits and less commonly known edible seeds. We will also cover the concept of invasivorism (eating invasive plants to mitigate ecological harm), while questioning ideas of ecological purity around native and invasive species. 

In the afternoon, led by Hannah Fletcher, we will gather around tables at Hackney Herbal to understand the actions of tincture making and what the ethanol extraction might bring to photographic chemistry as well as to the body. Finally, you will learn how to make your own plant-based developer, test the speed of the chemistry, and develop a 35mm film between a small group. We will finish up the day comparing the results afforded from different fruits, seeds, and invasive species used, and sampling some tinctures and seedy-snacks.

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.


Led by: Hannah Fletcher and Randa Toko.


Workshop & Foraging location: Saturday 15th August - Hackney Marshes (precise pin to be provided ahead) and Hackney Herbal Gardens, Trowbridge Rd, London E9 5LD.

Plant focus: Seeds and fruits (Elderberries, Hawthorn, Blackberries, Crab Apple, Cherry plums/mirabelles, Plantain seeds, Dock seeds, Japanese Knotweed, Himalayan Balsam, Hogweed seeds, Nettle seeds).

Edible component: Tinctures and seedy-snack.



When: Saturday 15th August, 11–5pm

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: Hackney Herbal Gardens 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:
© Céline Pilch

© Spring developers workshop
© Céline Pilch
© Sustainable Photography Conference workshop at Falmouth Uni, developed in food waste