Sit for a 4x5: Portrait Sessions with Genesis Falls

A conversation on the preservation and study of photographic archives, the fine art print side of the industry, and the responsibility photographers have in preserving their own bodies of work. Bringing together practical, academic, and digital preservation perspectives, the panel covers how historical collections inform contemporary visual storytelling, how photographers choose labs, papers, and formats, and how print sales factor into a sustainable photography business.

Chicago-based film photographer and 2023 Flickr x Black Women Photographers grant recipient Genesis Falls makes a compelling argument for shooting with intention. Drawing on her practice of documenting people in their spaces exclusively on film, she explores what it means to slow down, remove the safety net of color, and commit to an image before you ever press the shutter.

Genesis Falls sets up a working 4x5 portrait studio at MODE, inviting attendees to sit for a large format portrait taken on film. Across 25 available portrait slots, participants will experience the slower, more intentional process of large format photography while Genesis walks through what she sees, how she meters light, and why she waits before pressing the shutter. The goal is to create thoughtful portraits and have prints developed locally before the festival ends.