Back in business, 11x14

Fall is here and school has started back. I’m excited about using SCAD’s 11x14 view camera while I’m taking alternative processes.

Our assignment is to take a paper negative portrait, but the problem is that the exposure times tend to be around 30 seconds long when using fiber printing paper with an effective ISO of around 50.

I’m thinking of getting some 11x14 film, though. Problem with that is its $11 per sheet, and $160.00 for a 25 pack. I’m looking for someone to half it with me, or several people to fifth it with.

Sitting completely still for 30 seconds in front of that behemoth can get spiritual. Its a bizzarre experience, but rewarding.

Tomorrow we’ll scan the negatives in and see what we have.

You’re just not my Tintype

Don’t let the not-so-clever title fool you.

Tintypes are turning out to be my new thing.

Here is a quick rundown of what a Tintype is according to Wikipedia:

“Tintype, also melainotype and ferrotype, is a photograph made by creating a direct positive on a sheet of iron metal that is blackened by painting, laquering or enamelling and is used as a support for a collodion photographic emulsion.”

Check out this video to see the process.

We decided to go with the Tintype for the 19th century photographic assignment we were given for class.

I’m a fan of the TT because the metal gives the photograph a sense of objectivity. Its cold and heavy. When you hold a Tintype in your hands your holding a one of a kind photograph, and I think the heaviness of the metal helps give it a sense of importance.

Today Tiffany and I went through a practice run to see if our process was going to yield any results. This is what we came up with.

We’re quite happy with the results, and we can’t wait to shoot some more.