The Book of Alternative Photographic Processes

by Christopher James

Photographic artists and students of alternative process photography will welcome this new edition of Christopher James' The Book of Alternative Photographic Processes. This significantly expanded edition is a full-color, lavishly illustrated, comprehensive resource that explores every aspect of alternative process image making. With his highly conversational writing style, James explores the techniques, processes, idiosyncrasies, history, and cultural connections that are such a significant part of the genre. Best of all, James makes it extremely accessible, providing clear instructions and practical workflow advice. The book delves into a vast menu of alternative and traditional options, among them: calotype, salted paper, cyanotype, argyrotype, chrysotype, POP, kallitype, ambrotype/wet collodion, Van Dyke, platinum/palladium, Ziatype, gelatin dry plate emulsions, carbon, gum bichromate, albumen, hand-applied emulsions, paper, alternative imaging systems, and digital negative production for alternative process image making. This book has become the unanimous standard reference text for alternative process photography, one that students love to read and work from. Not only does this definitive work make the most complex ideas easy to understand, it is conversational, comfortable, inspirational, and fun to read- a tremendous resource and a treasure trove of alternative process images. "The first edition was a stunning achievement, and one I felt that was not likely to be superceded. Five short years later Christopher James has created a very new work and a new standard. The Book of Alternative Photographic Processes: 2nd Edition is, by far, the best alternative photographic process book ever!" - Richard Sullivan, Founder and Co-Owner, Bostick & Sullivan "If I could only have one photography book this would be it." -Timothy Whelan, Photographic Books

Genres: Photography, Art, Nonfiction

660 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2001

Reviews

[Laura Cashavelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

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!

[João Lamas · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Peter · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Victor N · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Jeff BuCher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing book for alt process! Must BUY!

[Rebecca Watkins · Rating 4 out of 5]

...essential for any photographer who enjoys the non-traditional.