Victorian Photographic Alchemy: Exploring Wet-Plate Collodion Photography
In the heart of Bournemouth, Dorset lies the little-known Russell-Cotes Museum, which hosted me, and several others, for a fascinating Wet-Plate Collodion Photography Workshop. This unique experience transported us back in time; allowing us to delve into the intriguing world of Victorian-era photography, complemented by an inspiring exhibition of John Thomson's timeless photographs of Asia during the 1800s.
The museum's special exhibition, 'Siam: Through the Lens of John Thomson,' showcases the work of John Thomson; a prominent photographer known for his captivating images during the 19th century. Thomson's photographs, displayed with meticulous detail, offer a visual narrative of a bygone era. From bustling street scenes to intimate portraits, each image tells stories of a time long past.
The Wet-Plate Collodion method of photography was invented by Frederick Scott Archer in 1851. This process emerged as a ground-breaking contribution to photography during a period dominated by patented and licensed competing processes. Introduced at a time when Louis Daguerre's ‘daguerreotype’ and William Henry Fox Talbot's ‘calotype’ methods were subject to these restrictive licenses; Archer's innovation offered a free and exciting alternative. His wet-plate collodion process involved coating glass plates with a mixture of collodion, ether, and alcohol, providing photographers with a more cost-effective and accessible means to capture detailed, exquisite images.
In contrast to the limitations imposed by licenses on other photographic techniques of the era, Archer's generosity in freely sharing his wet-plate collodion process arguably democratised photography. This accessibility played a pivotal role in shaping the mid-19th century photographic landscape; allowing a broader community of photographers to explore and contribute to the newly evolving art form; without financial barriers. Archer's open approach not only marked a significant chapter in photographic history, but also fostered a spirit of innovation and inclusivity, during a time of proprietary competition in the field.
We were led by our very experienced tutor for the day, Peter Renn. The workshop was a fascinating introduction into the meticulous process that defined this period of photography.
Eager to fully immerse myself in the Victorian experience, I decided to add to my wet-plate collodion photograph with a top hat, sourced from a local gentlemen’s outfitter and an overcoat draped over my shoulders, I aimed to emulate the fashion of the Victorian era. My attire seemed to add a sense of nostalgia to the process. I wanted to create an empathetic nod to all those who had (probably) been very sceptical about having their images taken using this ‘mysterious’ process all those years ago.
The distinctiveness of wet-plate collodion photography lies in its tangible, physical nature. Each step of the process is a fine balance of chemistry and artistry and a true testament to the craftsmanship of Victorian photographers. From coating glass or aluminium plates with the collodion mixture through to exposing and developing the image in real-time, we all found ourselves blown away by the alchemical ‘magic’ taking place in our own hands.
Under the dim light of the pop-up darkroom, we experienced the thrill of watching our images emerge on plates. The instant gratification of seeing a photograph materialise, accompanied by the unmistakable scent of chemicals, helped us connect with a time when each photographic plate was a labour of love, dedication, and skill.
In the realm of photography, there exists a widespread belief that millennials and Generation Z gravitate towards instant gratification. However, an intriguing parallel can be drawn to the past. During the Victorian era, there was a certain immediacy in photography, akin to the quick satisfaction sought after by today's youth. This trend underwent a transformation in the mid-20th century, as photographers shifted to sending their images away for development, putting a halt to the desire for instant results.
Fast forward to the digital age, and we witness a fascinating reversal : as the pendulum swings back towards the pursuit of 'instant gratification' in image creation. The contemporary digital generation takes this a step further, seamlessly capturing, editing, and sharing photographs with the world in a matter of seconds. It's a captivating journey, from the almost immediate results of early photography to the patience demanded by film development, and now, the resurgence of instant satisfaction in the warp-speed realm of digital imagery.
We each produced our own unique photograph and felt an enormous sense of accomplishment. The workshop not only demystified the historical photographic process, but also instilled a huge appreciation for the artistry of this time. The workshop was a celebration of the enduring allure of Victorian photography.
As we left the workshop with our handcrafted photographs in tow, we not only carried a permanent physical memory but also a newfound understanding and respect of the roots of our craft. I would highly recommend this type of workshop for those seeking to unravel the mysteries of the past through the lens of photography.