The Hidden Architect of Photography explores the overlooked yet essential contributions of Sir John Herschel, whose scientific discoveries and intellectual insights laid the foundation for modern photography.
Category Archives: Ultra Large Format Photography
Ultra Large Format Photography: Embracing the Process, Not Just the Result
Letting go of expectations when creating ultra large format photographs can be one of photography’s most liberating and rewarding experiences. In a world where precision, technical perfection, and controlled results often dominate, releasing the need for a specific outcome can open the door to more profound creativity, unexpected beauty, and a more meaningful connection with the process. Sometimes, that even means deciding not to take an exposure at all.
Calotype Diary 04/09/2025 – Temporal Symphony Plate No. 2
I recently decided to share my personal journal, which was originally created to document the process of making Calotype Paper Negatives and Salt Prints for my ongoing project, Temporal Symphony: Cycles of Change. Through these entries, I offer a glimpse into my creative process, thoughts, and experiences as I work with the rare and historic calotypeContinue reading “Calotype Diary 04/09/2025 – Temporal Symphony Plate No. 2”
The Amazing Color Transformation of Salt Prints
In this visual article, I share the color evolution of salt prints.
Calotype Diary 04/08/2025 – Temporal Symphony Plate No. 1
I recently decided to share my personal journal, which was originally created to document the process of making Calotype Paper Negatives and Salt Prints for my ongoing project, Temporal Symphony: Cycles of Change.
Imogen Cunningham: A Source of Inspiration for My Artistic Vision
My work, Temporal Symphony: Cycles of Change, is an ongoing exploration of Resilience, Transformation, and Connection through the delicate life cycle of flowers. Using handmade calotype paper negatives and salt prints, I seek to convey how beauty emerges, thrives, and fades within the continuous dance of transformation. My dedication to analog processes aligns with theContinue reading “Imogen Cunningham: A Source of Inspiration for My Artistic Vision”
Shout Out to Ultra Large Format Photographers
In this video today, I am reaching out to fellow ultra large format photographers asking about interest on the possibility of coming together and having Tim at Stearman Press making us some daylight development trays (like the 8×10 and 8×20 models).
Photography in 1980: A World Before DIgital, Internet, and Social Media
In 1980, being a photographer was an entirely different experience than it is today. It was a time of tactile processes, hands-on craftsmanship, and deep engagement with the art form. The conveniences of digital cameras, instant internet connectivity, and social media’s promotional power were still decades away. Photography in this era required dedication, patience, and a connection to the materiality of the craft.
Here’s what it was like to be a photographer in 1980.
New Three-Part Video Series with 14×17 Ultra Large Format in the Snow
Discover the Magic of Ultra Large Format Photography in a New Exclusive Video Series
Join me for a captivating behind-the-scenes journey in this exclusive three-part video series for Darkroom Diary Premium Members. Together with Tim Jr., I take my 14×17 Chamonix view camera, loaded with Ilford FP4 film and paired with a Nikkor 450mm lens, to the historic Hodgson Mill on a snowy winter day in the breathtaking Ozark Mountains. This series captures the artistry and technical mastery of ultra large format (ULF) photography while offering valuable insights and techniques you can apply to any format that you shoot.
14×17 Ultra Large Format With XRay Film (Behind The Scenes Field Work at Hodsgon Mill)
In my latest video, I take you behind the scenes to showcase the fieldwork involved in photographing Hodgson Mill using my 14×17 ultra-large format camera. From packing up gear in the darkroom to setting up in the field, I share the journey and challenges of working with such a large and intricate camera. You’ll see what it takes to compose, focus, and create exposures in the field, offering a rare glimpse into the dedication and process behind ultra-large format photography. Join me as I document this iconic 19th-century mill in the heart of the Missouri Ozarks and bring it to life through my lens.