Why Platinotypes?

Platinotypes, which are platinum-based photographs, were invented and patented in 1873 by William Willis (1806-1867) , primarily due to the need for image permanence. Platinum, being a noble metallic element, is much less prone to deterioration compared to other metallic elements like silver. However, the scarcity of platinum after two world wars, along with its significant cost, led to its use becoming virtually obsolete.

Why today?

Platinotype prints, often including Platinum/Palladium, are highly sought after and valued pieces of fine art due to their rarity, handmade nature, and uniqueness. They possess a tactile texture and a distinct beauty not found in traditional photographs. A notable aesthetic characteristic is the extensive tonal range (dynamic range) they exhibit.

Overview

The current renaissance in analogue photography in general  is fuelled by a yearning to decelerate and immerse oneself in the creative process, to truly engage with the tactile act of creating photographs rather than merely capturing them. 

Today's photographs are often relegated to digital obscurity, unseen and imprisoned within memory cards, hard drives, or cloud storage. As this photographic odyssey concludes, alternative printing methods are witnessing a resurgence, thriving alongside digital, or often moving into hybrid workflows. 

These alternative prints bring the artistry of photography to life, allowing it to adorn walls and grace galleries as a physical manifestation of the creative journey.

Alternative printing includes various sub-domains, typically categorized into three main groups: silver-based, iron-based, and chromium-based. Examples from the iron-based category (siderotypes) include Platinotypes, Palladiotypes, Cyanotypes, Chrysotypes, Argyrotypes, and Amphitypes, with Platinotypes being particularly enduring, coveted, and collectible.

Analog photography, specifically printing, is undergoing a resurgence despite the advancements in digital photography, phoneography (smartphone photography), and artificial intelligence (AI).

Sections in preparation include;

• Resources
• Chemistry and Science 
• Events & Activities