Wet Collodion Workshop

This intensive one day workshop will give you an introduction and hands-on experience in the wet collodion photographic process. Using 19th century technology, participants will learn the process of sensitising plates, correct exposure and development. The wet collodion process was developed in the early 1850s by Frederick Scott Archer  and can be applied to a variety of substrates. Participants in the workshops will create their own Tintype wet collodion plates on black aluminium and the process of varnishing will also be demonstrated and can be applied.

Participants in this workshop will be working working with dangerous chemicals and strict safety protocols must be adhered to.

Previous experience using large format cameras and lenses is highly recommended. If you have any concerns, please discuss this with us prior to enrollment. All images and video courtesy Jack McLain

Program

• Introduction and historical information
• Safety and WHS
• Demonstration of the process
• Cleaning, coating and sensitising the plate
• Loading the plate, exposure and hands-on shooting
• Development, Fixing and Washing
• Varnishing

What to bring

If you have your own 4×5″ camera, please bring it along on the day.

Enclosed shoes are required for this workshops and it is highly recommended to wear work clothes, as chemical staining can occur.

What will be provided

All safety equipment, cameras, holders and chemicals will be provided on the day.