affords

aaron F. Anderson

I’m a 28 year old photographer, photo darkroom professional, administrative assistant, and general DIY hobbyist!

I am currently employed at the Harvey Milk Photo Center where I manage the largest publicly run black and white photo darkroom in the United States.

Contact Information

[email protected]

LinkedIn

Work Experience

Photo Darkroom Manager/Facility Assistant

Harvey Milk Photo Center, San Francisco, CA
San Francisco Recreation and Parks Department
August 2021 – Present

I led the reopening and operational overhaul of the largest public darkroom in the United States after an 18-month COVID closure. I am now managing daily operations for a 35-enlarger facility serving 200+ active members.

  • Developing Python automation scripts for member data processing and administrative workflows
  • Writing instructional guides and training materials for staff and public programs
  • Designing and 3D printing custom replacement parts, eliminating vendor dependencies for equipment repairs
  • Coordinating annual member exhibition (50+ artists): manage submissions, establish guidelines, oversee installation
  • Conducting new member orientations and provide ongoing technical instruction in analog and digital printing processes

Child Care/Disaster Service Worker

Mission Arts Center, San Francisco, CA
San Francisco Recreation and Parks Department
September 2020 – June 2021

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, my work for SF Recreation and Park shifted to focus on child care as I was activated as a Disaster Service Worker for the City of San Francisco. I was assigned to work at the Mission Arts Center, where a de-facto child care center was established for families in need of childcare throughout the school year when schools were closed for the 2020-2021 school year. After the school year ended, I returned to the Randall Museum.

  • Provided childcare services for children from kindergarten to 8th grade.
  • Managed the schedules of up to 12 students.
  • Taught students about safety practices during the pandemic.
  • Created and conducted fun art projects.
  • Assisted students with their distance learning

Museum Associate/Facility Assistant

Randall Museum, San Francisco, CA
San Francisco Recreation and Parks Department
August 2018 – August 2021

In August 2018, I started work at the Randall Museum, which is an art and ecology museum run as a collaboration between the San Francisco Recreation and Parks Department (SFRPD) and the non-profit organization Randall Museum Friends.

  • Assisted staff with various tasks involved in museum operations
  • Managed attendance data of the museum and its various classes
  • Performed general event staff duties, including setup and cleanup.
  • Wrote computer programs to reduce repetitive tasks
  • Performed miscellaneous maintenance tasks

Art Teacher/Darkroom Attendant

Harvey Milk Center for the Arts/Harvey Milk Photo Center, San Francisco, CA
San Francisco Recreation and Parks Department,
April 2017 – December 2018

  • Created and taught summer and after-school photography classes for children ages 6 to 12.
  • Black and white darkroom setup, breakdown, and clean up.
  • Set up and cleaned digital lab equipment
  • Maintained film scanners and inkjet printers

AmeriCorps Member for SFUSD

Sheridan Elementary, San Francisco, CA
The Corporation for National and Community Service/San Francisco Unified School District
November 2015 – July 2016

  • Facilitated Mentoring For Success (MFS) program
  • Recruited volunteers to serve as mentors
  • Provided in-class support to students including behavioral support
  • Created a newspaper club for upper grade students

Internships

  • Photography Teacher’s Assistant, Youth Art Exchange
    (August 2015 – June 2016)
  • Darkroom Intern, Rayko Photo Center
    (June 2015 – September 2015)

Skills

Photographer

As a photographer with over 13 years of experience, I specialize in analog photography, including the use of darkroom techniques and processes to produce fine art and expressive images.

Problem Solver

I have a natural inclination to find order in complex situations, and I am adept at identifying issues and developing solutions. I am detail-oriented and persistent in my approach to problem-solving, making me confident in my ability to apply these skills to any situation.

Quick Learner

I am a curious and attentive person who always seeks out new challenges and opportunities to expand my skillsets. I am always eager to take on new challenges as I believe they’re a great way to grow and learn, and I am constantly seeking ways to step out of my comfort zone and develop as a person.

Excellent at writing documentation

I am an excellent writer and have a strong ability to create clear and concise documentation and guides for both coworkers and members of the public. I’ve written instructional guides for many audiences, from museum visitors to colleagues. I take pride in my ability to communicate complex concepts in a way that is easy for others to understand, and I am always looking for ways to improve my writing skills.

Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom

As a seasoned photographer, I have extensive experience using the Adobe suite of photo apps, particularly Photoshop and Lightroom. Using these tools, I can enhance and edit images to create stunning visuals that capture the essence of a moment or mood.

Microsoft Office Suite

I have extensive experience using Microsoft Excel, primarily for visual and small calculations purposes, as well as for management. I have used Excel to calculate supplies and keep track of information about the places I work, as well as creating dynamic documents to help with information overload and decision making.

I am also a long term user of Microsoft Word and PowerPoint.

Notion

Notion is a tool that I use extensively to organize my work and personal life. I have experience using Notion to track tasks, projects, and notes, and I am comfortable with its various features, including databases, templates, and integrations. Notion has been a valuable asset in both my personal and professional life.

Multi-platform proficiency

One of my core strengths is my proficiency in using various operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux. Through my experience, I have developed a deep understanding of their functionalities, enabling me to work efficiently and effectively across multiple devices. Whether I am using a laptop, tablet, or smartphone, I am confident in my ability to navigate the operating system and perform various tasks with ease. This proficiency has been a valuable asset in both my personal and professional life, allowing me to adapt to different environments and technologies quickly.

Python and typescript

I use Python and Typescript to write programs that make my work and my coworkers’ work easier and more efficient. You can examples of this on my GitHub and my Projects page.