Analog Photography

Analog photography also known as film photography, is a term usually applied to photography that uses chemical processes to capture an image, typically on paper, film or a hard plate. These processes were the only methods available to photographers for than a century prior to the invention of digital photography.

A Gelatin Silver print is a black and white photograph created using traditional darkroom techniques. It involves exposing light sensitive silver salts coated on photographic paper to light, followed by developing the exposed paper in chemical baths. The process results in finely detailed prints with a wide range of tones, from rich blacks to subtle grays.

Photographic tones are chemical solutions to alter the color or appearance of the print. They can intensify or change the color of black and white prints, as well as enhance their archival properties. Toners are applied to prints after they have been developed and fixed, and they work by reacting with the silver in the prints emulsion. The process can create unique visual effects and improve the longevity of the photograph. Popular toners include gold, selenium, and tea.

Resource: Glassell School of Art, Houston, Texas.