WETPLATE COLLODION
Info & Pricing
PHOTOGRAPHS FROM HERE TO ETERNITY
The history of photography has always fascinated me, along with the roots and traditions of my profession. It's truly amazing to gain insight into where it all began and what has changed over the relatively young history of photography. From its inception, photography has been present in all stages of life—from birth to death and, in some cases, even beyond. In the world of photographs, fantasy and reality blend together, revealing only the reality framed by the photographer. Through photographs, we can glimpse past moments and, in the same way, leave our own ephemeral mark on the flow of time. At times, photographs allow us to reflect on the future, transforming our imagination and expectations into a visible form.
The wet plate collodion technique has always fascinated me because of its visual character and physicality. Equally compelling is the idea of a photograph that cannot be directly replicated, where every single image and moment becomes a unique result of craftsmanship. The process of taking a photograph is also significantly slower, which brings a sense of dedication and a solemnity to the act of creating a single image that is difficult—if not impossible—to achieve with other photographic techniques.
Each individual photograph is crafted from start to finish in one session, emphasizing the importance of skill in the application of chemicals. Every minor accident or movement leaves its mark on the surface of the plate, creating an organic, unique, and magical result. The figures in these photographs seem to gaze at us from afar, as if from the depths of centuries past.
THE PROCESS
I. Book your session
This is the perfect moment to share any special requests or considerations for your photoshoot. Based on this information, we will draft a photography agreement tailored to your needs.
II. taking the photograph
This Moment is Just for You.
Plan to set aside about 1 hour for your photoshoot. The process of photographing and preparing the plate involves several steps, and you are welcome to observe each stage if you wish.
III. scanning and varnishing
You will receive a scanned digital copy of your photograph immediately. However, for the pickup or delivery of the physical plate, we will schedule a time at this stage. The plate will be varnished to ensure durability, requiring at least 24 hours to dry. You can choose whether you’d like a hook on the back for hanging or a stand for tabletop display.
IV. Delivery
We will meet to deliver your finished photo plate, either at the studio or another agreed location. If you wish, you can also have your photo framed to suit your style. Now it's time to admire the final result!
PRICES AND PHOTO PLATE SIZES
I.
220€
II.
180€
III.
150€
PHOTO PLATE SIZES
The chart below allows you to easily compare photo sizes. If desired, you can have multiple photos taken in different sizes during the same session.
The largest size, I, is ideal for group or couple portraits and is also the most striking choice for single-person portraits.
Sizes II and III are perfectly suited for individual headshots due to their dimensions.
The base price of the session is determined by the largest size selected, while any additional photos are priced separately according to their respective sizes.
THE TOOLS OF THE TRADE
Since the camera itself plays such a significant role in the process, I thought it would be nice to introduce my working partners in advance. The camera in use has a decisive impact on the size of the images it can produce.
PLATE SIZE I & II
This camera brings together the best of two eras. 19th-century photography techniques in a nimble and portable form. However, the design of the camera allows for a larger image size than its older counterpart. If you're looking for a historical photography experience with a modern twist, resulting in a larger image size, this is your choice.
PLATE SIZE III
The journey of this vintage camera's lens begins in the late 19th century, and its wooden body with metal components is likely over a century old. Over the years, the camera has passed from one photographer to another, capturing countless subjects along the way. If you want a photography experience imbued with true traces of time, this is your choice.
PREPARING FOR YOUR PHOTO SESSION
The photograph will be captured as a mirror image, so it’s best to avoid clothing with readable text or logos.
This photographic technique reproduces colors differently than what we are accustomed to in digital or film photography. Keep this in mind when deciding what to wear for your session.
Below is an example of how colors are rendered.
Color Rendering on a Wet Plate Photograph On a wet plate photograph, colors appear differently: Reds, yellows, and greens appear dark. Bluish tones appear light. This unique tonal shift is an inherent characteristic of the technique.
Color Digital Photograph The digital photo has been mirrored to make comparison with the wet plate image easier. This allows you to better visualize how colors and details will appear when translated to the wet plate medium.
Due to the nature of this photographic technique, it is essential for the subject to remain still for approximately 30 seconds.
Photographs are taken using flash lighting. If your eyes blink closed during the flash, we can retake the photo within the scheduled session time.
