The collodion

The wet plate technique has been experiencing a major revival worldwide for several years. Invented in 1851, it was the recording technique that made photography a mass medium. And this method, of all things, was condemned in its time in the 19th century as the "most horrible and unreliable of all chemical photo processes". Photographers had to laboriously process their images on site in mobile darkrooms.

Today, however, that is precisely what makes it so appealing - not taking the easy route. The aim is to emphasize the creative, technical and artistic interpretation of photography as a state of mind. The revival of reflective, proactive work on site is clearly accompanied by the desire to counteract the digital uniformity with unique pieces full of character. The active role that the photographer takes on through his personal style before, during and after the shot makes every photograph unique.

THE COLLODION is the most comprehensive handbook of wet plate positive images that has been written in German since the invention of this technique over 160 years ago. With over 400 images, illustrations, instructions and detailed background information, Peter Michels provides a comprehensive and contemporary overview of modern wet plate photography. He places an explicit emphasis on the positive technique with collodion. Ten artist portfolios illustrate the creative potential of the makers - far from ordinary photography.