Please introduce yourself and tell us about your background.
I'm Santiago Ramirez Sonntag, founder of SmartLab35, and I studied electrical engineering and information technology at Aschaffenburg University of Applied Sciences. During my studies, I was able to gain valuable experience in developing high-quality products for analog photography as a working student at Heiland Electronic GmbH. It was there that I developed my enthusiasm for technical details and precise work – a passion that has stayed with me to this day.
After graduating, I worked in the automotive industry as an electrical engineer, developing electronic solutions for well-known Japanese OEMs, among other things. This experience further sharpened my technical know-how.
With SmartLab35, I finally created the opportunity to combine my passion for precision technology with my passion for analog photography – to develop modern, high-quality solutions that help keep the magic of the darkroom alive even today.
How did you get into analog photography?
I discovered analog photography at an early age: As a child, I spent time outdoors behind the camera with my father, a passionate analog photographer, and later in the darkroom developing negatives and making prints. These early experiences had a lasting impact on me.
Later, I ventured out with my own camera, photographing primarily in black and white, and repeatedly developing my films in my own small photo lab. My fascination with the entire analog process—from the shutter release to the finished print—has stayed with me to this day.
What motivated you to design a new enlarger?
Over time, I noticed that it was becoming increasingly difficult for analog photographers to find modern, reliable enlargers—especially ones that were high-quality and easy to use. Many classic devices are now outdated or only available secondhand.
My own living situation as a student and as a person living alone also played a role. Space for a dedicated lab was always very limited. That's why I placed particular emphasis on developing a small and compact device that could be easily used even in confined spaces.
With SmartLab35, I wanted to create the perfect solution for photographers who, like me, need a modern enlarger that offers all the advantages of classic technology, but is also tailored to today's needs and space constraints.
What future products are planned?
We are currently in the launch phase for the Smart Enlarger 120, a photo enlarger specially developed for negative formats up to 9x6 cm. A particular highlight is the electrically adjustable focus unit, which enables even more precise adjustment.
In addition, we plan to launch additional smart devices in the photo lab sector in the medium term. These devices are intended to both expand the range of functions and further simplify and support the operation of the devices already presented.
Our vision is to revive the analog photo lab market – just as analog photography as a whole is currently experiencing a renaissance.
We want to provide our customers with the right tools for their creative work, which we value highly, so they can fully and freely express their creativity.
I look forward to embarking on this journey together with the community and keeping analog photography alive.
