Can I make a simple homemade photosensitive material for a DIY camera?

Question

I’ve built a very simple camera with a homemade acrylic lens and a projection screen at the back. Now I’d like to record an image using something I make myself rather than buying normal film. I understand I won’t be making true photographic film—I’m just looking for any workable photosensitive surface that can capture an image, even very slowly, so I can scan the result afterward.

I’d prefer ideas that are simple and accessible, ideally using household materials, and I’m not very experienced with chemistry. Are there any realistic options for homemade light-sensitive coatings or surfaces for use in a camera?

user89902 · Answer

Some years ago, there were a number of "liquid emulsion" products, which allowed you to "paint" a surface with sensitized gelatin similar to that on enlarging paper. Once dried (in the dark) this could be exposed, either under an enlarger or in a camera, then developed much like a print to show an image (negative of the scene, though if on a black surface the image would become positive by reflection).

I don't know if these are still available, but such materials are within the scope of amateur production -- but how to actual do that job is far beyond what can be answered on this kind of site. There was a photographer in Oregon ten years or so ago who had a very complete web site, documenting her methods, and made all her own plates and even sheet film.

Can I make a simple homemade photosensitive material for a DIY camera?

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