Category Archives: Ultra Large Format Photography

3 Key Tips for Making Ultra Large Format Calotype Paper Negatives

This article will share valuable insights and practical tips I’ve gained while creating ultra-large-format handmade calotype paper negatives.

Of all the photographic processes I’ve explored over the past four decades, the handmade calotype paper negative holds a special place in my heart. While it was incredibly challenging to master initially—even with smaller formats like 4×5 and 5×7—the effort was well worth it. The early frustrations, including subtle chemistry quirks, gradually became a deeply rewarding practice. With patience, persistence, and a lot of experimentation, the process transforms into something magical.

My Latest Large & Ultra Large Format Contact Printing Setup

In this new video, I showcase my latest large and ultra-large format contact printing setup, which Tim Jr. and I built specifically for creating silver gelatin split-grade contact prints. I take you through the design, construction, and features of this custom build, explaining how it enhances our workflow and allows us to produce stunning fine art prints. Whether you’re a fellow analog photography enthusiast or simply curious about the craftsmanship behind large format printing, this video offers a detailed look at our innovative approach.

14×17 Ultra Large Format with X-Ray Film & Platinum/Palladium Print at Hodgson Mill

Join me behind the scenes as Tim Jr. and I travel to Hodgson Mill, nestled in the scenic Missouri Ozark Mountains, to photograph this iconic 19th-century mill using my 14×17 ultra-large format camera and X-Ray film. This historic mill has been a favorite subject of mine, but on this trip, I captured a unique view that I’ve never photographed before.

My Plans for 2025

Sitting here as I write this article at 530 AM on January 1, 2025, I feel thankful and grateful. 2024 was a good year in many ways, but it was also very challenging. We try to avoid challenges, but they always shape us into better people and help us grow to new levels.

I wanted to share my photographic plans with you in the new year.

The Impact of Light & Exposure Time on the Color of my Calotype Paper Negatives

I was showing my calotypes to a group of friends recently and one of them asked why my calotypes varied in color from a near neutral tone to very rich and deep warm browns/reds.

The others in the group were fascinated by my explanation and mentioned this would make for a good article on my blog. So, here I am.

I hope you enjoy this article and be sure to look at the examples and try and guess how I made the calotype before looking at the answers.

The Authentic Path: Living Your Creative Dream

As I sit in my darkroom, surrounded by the many wonderful handmade prints and tools I have collected over the years, the soft light of a vintage lamp casting long shadows across my workspace, I feel a deep sense of peace and fulfillment.

This is where my journey has brought me—a place where creativity and purpose align profoundly authentically. Today, I want to share my mindset as I move forward in my art and life and perhaps encourage you to uncover the dream that lies deep within you.

November Darkroom Diary Premium Membership Meeting on 11/30/2024

This is a quick announcement to inform you that our monthly Darkroom Diary video meeting will be on Saturday, November 30, 2024, at 10 AM CT.

The First Photographic Record of the Ancient City of Hampi

As a photographer deeply committed to historical processes, I primarily use the handmade calotype paper negative and salt printing techniques for many of my projects. This method, which traces its roots to the pioneering days of photography in the mid-19th century, not only allows me to connect with the origins of the art form but also serves as an ongoing area of research. In my exploration of the calotype, I stumbled upon a fascinating story from history—an early photographic record of the ancient city of Hampi (1336-1565) captured by Colonel Alexander Greenlaw in 1856 using a modified version of the Calotype paper negative process.

His work, using the same calotype process I employ today, represents the first comprehensive visual documentation of the site and remains a significant resource for archaeological research and restoration efforts. This story of Greenlaw and Hampi exemplifies the enduring power of photography as a tool for historical preservation.

Hopefully, this story will make you laugh and brighten your day a little.

I have a funny story to share with you today that I think will put a smile on your face and hopefully brighten your day a little bit.