Polaroid Emulsion Lift Workshop with Mengfan Yang

Transform Instant Photographs Into Unique Handmade Artworks

What if a photograph didn't have to stay on the paper where it was born?

In this hands-on workshop, you'll learn the fascinating process of Polaroid Emulsion Lift, a technique that allows you to separate the delicate photographic emulsion from a Polaroid print and transfer it onto a completely different surface.

The result is something between photography, painting, and sculpture: a one-of-a-kind image that can never be reproduced exactly the same way twice.

Led by photographer and artist Mengfan Yang, this workshop introduces participants to the creative possibilities of working with Polaroid film beyond traditional photography. You'll learn how to create floating images, organic distortions, and beautiful imperfections that transform simple photographs into unique works of art.

This special edition workshop is proudly sponsored by Polaroid.

What You'll Learn

Understanding Polaroid Emulsion Lift

• What emulsion lift is
• How instant film is constructed
• Why the technique works
• Examples from contemporary artists

Preparing Your Images

• Choosing suitable photographs
• Understanding image characteristics
• Selecting the best prints for transfer

Separating the Emulsion

• Working with warm water
• Handling delicate emulsions
• Preventing damage
• Understanding timing and temperature

Transferring Images

• Positioning the emulsion
• Working with different surfaces
• Creating organic distortions
• Preserving image details

Creative Experimentation

• Intentional manipulation
• Layering techniques
• Combining multiple images
• Working with imperfections

Finishing and Preservation

• Drying methods
• Mounting techniques
• Long-term preservation
• Display options

Who Is This Workshop For?

Perfect for:

• Film photographers
• Polaroid enthusiasts
• Artists
• Creative experimenters
• Mixed-media creators
• Photography students
• Anyone curious about alternative photographic techniques

No previous experience is required.

What's Included

✅ Guided workshop with Mengfan Yang

✅ Polaroid materials

✅ Transfer materials

✅ Practical demonstrations

✅ Hands-on exercises

✅ Individual feedback

✅ Finished artworks to take home

✅ Creative experimentation session

Location

📍 Berlin Photo Studio
Nazarethkirchstraße 41
13347 Berlin

About Mengfan Yang

Mengfan Yang is a photographer and visual artist whose work explores memory, identity, and the physical nature of photographic images. Through alternative processes and experimental techniques, she investigates new ways of transforming photographs into unique objects and personal narratives.

What You'll Leave With

After the workshop, you'll have:

• A solid understanding of the emulsion lift process
• Several completed emulsion lift artworks
• Confidence to continue experimenting independently
• New creative approaches to instant photography
• A deeper appreciation of photography as a physical medium

Most photographs are printed once.

An emulsion lift allows you to create something that exists only once.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Polaroid camera?

No. Materials and photographs will be provided during the workshop.

Is previous photography experience required?

No. The workshop is suitable for beginners and experienced photographers alike.

Can I bring my own Polaroid photographs?

Yes. If you have compatible Polaroid images, you're welcome to bring them.

Will I take my artwork home?

Absolutely. All artworks created during the workshop belong to you.

Is this workshop suitable for children?

Teenagers and young adults with an interest in photography and art are welcome, although the workshop is primarily designed for adults.

Continue your analogue journey

Browse more instant cameras, choose compatible instant film, or explore the complete camera collection. Check film compatibility before ordering.