An Intro to Wet-Plate Collodion Photography by Jenn Libby

I attended a lecture and demonstration today on the wet plate collodion process by Rochester-based artist Jenn Libby. Offered through Rochester Brainery, it was held at her Genesee Libby Studio in the Hungerford Building. Invented in 1851 by Frederick Scott Archer, wet plate collodion is one of the oldest photographic processes, and is experiencing a revival in the 21st century.

In the class Jenn presented how a wet-plate image is made, why it became the dominant form of photography during much of the Victorian Era, and why it is gaining in popularity today. We were able to examine samples of modern and antique plates on metal and glass and learn the difference between tintypes, ambrotypes, and daguerreotypes.

Jenn also demonstrated the process using her vintage 8×10 camera fitted with a classic Wollensak Raptar lens to create an ambrotype portrait our group. We were able to see this fascinating photographic method first hand; it was a great introduction to a key process in the development of photography.

Genesee Libby Studio offers portrait sessions by appointment if you are interested in having your own modern antique portrait made, and also offers workshops in the process of making tintypes & ambrotypes.

Below are a few Instagram shots from today’s class.