If the link doesn't work just go to books.google dot com and look up Photography in a nutshell. It's a full view book from 1898 that has some interesting writing in it.
Hey, if things keep going the way they are with the manufacturers, that book might be state of the art in 25 years or so, reflecting how far back we have moved.
Hey, if things keep going the way they are with the manufacturers, that book might be state of the art in 25 years or so, reflecting how far back we have moved.
Fortunately, manufacturers are no longer in control of the 'state of the art', right Ron? I know you're cooking in at least the 1940's. I think I'm somewhere around 1925. Emulsion making started with amateurs and I think it's inevitable and highly appropriate that it ends with us.
Well, in my opinion, the late 40s and 50s were the height of the b&w age of photography - at least from the fine art point of view. The materials never got more beautiful. If you're up to the 60s, I think the 'best' you can do is far and away more than good enough. You should be very, very proud. I know I'm grateful for your hard work.
Back to the OP. Reading the old books is great fun and very educational. It's a very effective way to start learning about emulsions. Thanks for the link!
Yes, although primarily glass dry plate. But, I'm a historian and researcher. I'm not saying I could run a profitable commercial studio with homemade negs. I do think a fine art photog could make it work. 'Handmade' goes for a premium.
If I recall correctly, you have made enlargements from your dry plate negatives. Could you give an indication of image quality compared to a modern film?
As with commercial products, artisan products come in different flavors. Apart from the color sensitivity differences, TLF#2, enlarged 2x, looks like old TRI-X pushed to 800. On the other hand, TLF#1 is grainless and bold. It looks just like Tech Pan developed for a smooth density range.