the first couple of half plate, glass ambrotype test images, featuring 'Rob' and 'Mick'
This shows how the process can be very variable and 'unique' with the typical ragged edges from the imperfect flowing of the liquid collodion and developer. This plate was overexposed, but notice how Robs eyes are 'sharp' while the background and other features are out of focus. This is typical of the old original lens that was used and the large apertures often needed for studio work
Here the camera was not focused on the face, but on the hands, notice the detail in the woodwork on the right hand side, again showing the typical narrow depth of field.
A recent shot of Rob on a half plate black aluminium (tintype)
Snowdrops
A location image on a black aluminium plate (Tintype), these scanned images cannot really convey the quality or magical feel of holding a 'moment in time' in your hands. Another point to consider, is that as well as each plate being unique, the image is 'permanent' and should easily still be around in the next 100 years or more, in contrast to those snaps on a 'phone, camera or other digital media. I wonder if we will have a card reader, PC or CD player in 2115, to make use of them.......!
A location image on a black aluminium plate (Tintype), these scanned images cannot really convey the quality or magical feel of holding a 'moment in time' in your hands. Another point to consider, is that as well as each plate being unique, the image is 'permanent' and should easily still be around in the next 100 years or more, in contrast to those snaps on a 'phone, camera or other digital media. I wonder if we will have a card reader, PC or CD player in 2115, to make use of them.......!
'JOanne' half plate on black acrylic
Jo and Sam........Sam demonstrates that it's difficult to remain motionless for 6 seconds! whilst Jo's blue eyes have an ethereal quality, as the wetplate process responds to the ultraviolet end of the spectrum. Half plate tintype