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I was introduced to photography as a child but was not allowed to use chemicals. I would use a developed film and print on to printing-out paper put in a window under the film in the sun. After an hour or so the image was visible. I think I was allowed to use salt (NaCl) to fix the image.
I later experimented with lens in a tube and copper plates as a sensitive material. I would make an image in silver and gold on copper. At first it was exposing the plate directly using a lens. I found much later that it was impractical to use an enlarger and film with copper plate.
I do not have any of these images.
My first camera was a Kodak box brownie and that has long since disappeared. I took photos of all kinds all over the place. Eventually I was allowed to develop and print with contact prints. As a child I did not cotton on to an enlarger and as my family’s budget was very limited, purchase was not possible.
Only recently did I start any attempt at commercial photography and it was only when I retired that any money made from this artistry became significant.
Although I am a bit artistic most of my photographic interest has been technical. I now use a pocket digital and a computer to process the image into a painterly effect. Printing is by a commercial internet printing company and my works are on sale in a local art gallery where I have befriended the president. I hope to find other art galleries who will host my images.
A five-year attempt to sell over the “world wide web” resulted in one sale and this has been abandoned after a fair amount of expense. I only advertise the gallery now with my images as samples on the web.
Now I try to find images that will sell rather than just for my own pleasure. Giving pleasure to another person, gives me pleasure too, but I like to make a profit. I cost each sale and price at what my customers will pay. The bigger my profit the better I feel. It makes any artistry seem worthwhile – and I can spend it….
Chris.
-----Original Message-----
I am interested in knowing what purposes all of you feel photography serves, and especially interested in knowing those purposes beyond earning a living.
Another way to put my question (or this could be interpreted as another question) what is photography beyond the camera (leaving the technicalities of photographic equipment, that is)?
Another, more romantic way, to word my question would be - what place in your heart does photography fill?
Marilyn ________________________________
Leave gentle fingerprints on the
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