PHOT 416: Platinum and Advanced Non-Silver Processes
Introduction
History of Platinum Printing
Characteristics of Platinum Printing
Techniques for Platinum Printing
Non-Silver Processes
Cyanotype
Gum Bichromate
Ziatype
Vandyke Brown
Comparison of Non-Silver Processes
Contemporary Use of Platinum and Non-Silver Processes
Future of Platinum and Non-Silver Processes
Conclusion
FAQs
What is platinum printing?
Platinum printing is a photographic printing process that uses platinum or platinum-palladium salts to produce high-quality prints with a tonal range and depth that is difficult to achieve with other printing techniques.
What are the advantages of platinum printing?
Platinum printing produces prints that are known for their archival quality, tonal range, and depth. The process is also environmentally friendly, as it does not use toxic chemicals.
What is the digital negative process?
The digital negative process involves creating a negative image of the photograph digitally, which is then printed onto a transparency film using an inkjet printer. The negative is then used to create the final print using the platinum printing process.
What are non-silver processes?
Non-silver processes are photographic printing techniques that do not use silver-based emulsions. These techniques
What are the advantages of non-silver processes?
Non-silver processes offer photographers an opportunity to explore a range of creative possibilities, as they produce unique and varied results. They also provide environmentally-friendly alternatives to traditional printing techniques.
How does cyanotype printing work?
Cyanotype printing involves coating paper with a solution of potassium ferricyanide and ferric ammonium citrate, then exposing it to UV light with a negative image on top. The exposed areas of the paper turn blue, while the unexposed areas remain white.
How do gum bichromate prints differ from other printing techniques?
Gum bichromate prints are characterized by their softness and painterly quality. They are created by coating paper with a mixture of gum arabic and potassium bichromate, then exposing it to UV light with a negative image on top. The image is then developed by washing the paper in water.
What is the future of traditional printing techniques?
While digital printing has become the dominant form of photographic printing, traditional printing techniques such as platinum printing and non-silver processes continue to be used by artists and photographers who value the unique aesthetic qualities and archival properties of these techniques.
How can I learn more about these techniques?
There are many resources available for learning about platinum and non-silver processes, including workshops, online courses, and books on the subject. Additionally, many photographers and artists who specialize in these techniques share their knowledge and experiences through online forums and social media.
Conclusion
Platinum and non-silver processes offer photographers and artists a range of creative possibilities and unique aesthetic qualities. From the rich tonal range of platinum printing to the painterly quality of gum bichromate prints, these techniques allow for a level of artistic expression that cannot be achieved with digital printing alone. As the field of photography continues to evolve, it is important to remember the value and significance of these traditional printing techniques and their place in the future of photography.