Bengala

How did this place come about and what made it different from the start?
Bengala was born in 2020 with the idea of ​​being more than just a lab: we wanted a place where analog photography could not only be developed, but also shared. From the beginning, what made us different was putting the community at the center, opening a space where people could learn, be inspired, and connect through photography.

What part of the day, space, or creative process do those who work here enjoy the most?
The moment when we see the images come to life is definitely special. There's something very unique about developing and scanning film, discovering what our clients have captured alongside them. That excitement is shared by both those who bring in their rolls of film and us who process them.

If someone is coming in for the first time, what should they not miss?
You shouldn't miss the experience of exploring the space: from the laboratory and the shop, the gallery with contemporary photography exhibitions, or the garden that distinguishes us so much.

What has been an interesting challenge that has made you rethink something about the project?
One of the biggest challenges has been finding suitable suppliers and technicians to maintain quality throughout all processes. This led us to reconsider the importance of continuous research and developing our own solutions.

What influence, idea or reference continues to guide what you do today?
We always return to the idea that gave us our start: light as a form of expression. It is our creative beacon and what reminds us that each roll of film and each image is a different way of seeing and sharing the world.

What place, project, or person has inspired you recently and why?
We are very inspired to see how other labs and collectives, both in Mexico and abroad, are building community around analog photography. We recently had a visit in SAFELIGHT in Berlin, a laboratory that has been a great inspiration to us from the beginning. That energy of exchange motivates us to continue looking for ways to collaborate and grow together.

If your space could invite someone to collaborate for a day, who would it be and what would you do together?
We have recently collaborated with photographers we admire, such as Mariana García, Andrés Torres (Mexicanografía), Alfredo Contreras. We would love to invite Yvonne Venegas, we find her work profound and inspiring! Something like a photography residency.

Is there an object, corner or detail of the place that has a story that few people know?
The entire space was conceived and designed as a camera obscura, taking into account the behavior of light through the glass blocks that distinguish our facade, as well as the garden and the conceptual entrance with its white frame. Errata, architecture firm led by Ana Rebeca Mata.

If this project were a city, a book, or a record, which would it be and why?
It would probably be Inteligencia Visual by Amy E. Herman. The author teaches you to develop the art of perception through simple techniques that can help you see opportunities in all areas of your life. For us, that's what Bengala is: a window that leads us to a new world where everything is possible if you know how to observe and seize the right opportunities.

Answers by Daniela Villarreal and Rodrigo Espinosa, co-founders of Bengala.