Written by internationally acclaimed artist and photographer Christopher James, THE BOOK OF ALTERNATIVE PHOTOGRAPHIC 3rd Edition is the definitive text for students and professionals studying alternative photographic processes and the art of hand-made photographic image making. This innovative Third Edition brings the medium up to date with new and historic processes that are integrated with the latest contemporary innovations, adaptations, techniques, and art work. This 800 page edition is packed with more than 700 exquisite illustrations featuring historical examples as well as the art that is currently being made by professional alternative process, artists, teachers, and students of the genre. The third edition is the complete and comprehensive technical and aesthetic resource exploring and delving into every aspect of alternative photographic process photography. Each chapter introduces the history of a technique, presents an overview of the alternative photographic process that will be featured, reviews its chemistry, and provides practical and easy to follow guidance in how to make it work. In his conversational writing style, James also explores the idiosyncrasies, history, and cultural connections that are such a significant part of the history of photography. Featuring traditional and digital contact negative production as well as an array of processes, spread out over 28 chapters, THE BOOK OF ALTERNATIVE PHOTOGRAPHIC 3RD EDITION delivers clear instructions, practical workflows and advice, humor, history, art, and immeasurable inspiration.Important Media content referenced within the product description or the product text may not be available in the ebook version.
Christopher, I love you. My book is smelly and dirty from all the water and chemicals I have already spilled on it. This book helped me get my Cyanotypes on glass, thanks to his wonderful suggestion of Gelatin. During my course on Alternative Photography at the Art Institute of Boston (taught my the fabulous Cig Harvey, who's work is displayed in this current edition) I learned just what it is I want to do for the rest of my life.....print blue images on glass!
Simply one of the best books about photography I had the pleasure to read. Not only it focus on the chemestry and tries to explain it in a way that is not overwelming, the author brings out historical references and current artists that use these techniques. A must read.
The myriad photographic processes come alive in James’ prose. If you’re a photographer you’ll love it; if you’re not, you’re due to enjoy a conversation with a fine writer. Note: Mine was the Third edition.
I’ve not read this cover to cover, it’s more of a reference book but anyone who enjoys the history of photography should find this interesting. It is one of my favorite books I’ve ever owned.