Photography

New Zealand Graphic, Volume XXX, Issue XVII, 25 April 1903, Page 1125

Photography

fyja A$ made such strides in the latter half of the nineteenth century, that the JnfiSri ' possibility of taking anc ' manipulating "sun ' pictures” is now within the reach of all—even lazy fo’k. As it is very likely that some of my girl readers have not taken up this fascinating art, it is to them I particularly intend to address my remarks. The girl who cultivates some hobby, such as photography, drawing, entomology-, and a thousand and one other things, which may be classed as personal recreation, has always something within her reach which makes her quite independent of the outside world and its amusements. In purchasing a camera, several things have to be taken into consideration, but I would obtain, if possible, the advice of a professional on that point, as there are so many different makers to choose from. Personally, I have a great predilection for the hand camera, carrying twelve quarter plates, providing the lens is extra good. The lens is the most important of all the apparatus in photography. The cost of the camera is by no means all that will be incurred, if you wish to obtain the greatest amount of pleasure possible out of it. There are developing dishes, red lamp, scales, chemicals, etc., but these are comparatively reasonable to purchase. Before using the camera it is advisable to familiarize one’s self with all the workingparts, finding out the whys and wherefore of each separate movement, and thus be in a better

position to make use of them before filling and "pressing the button." At the outset, do not hurriedly expose all your plates; use them judiciousiv and suitably, always remembering that one satisfactory view is worth twelve poor ones. When you arrive at this stage, friends and relations give one plenty of encouragement, providing they are not the victims of your efforts, so do not let your enthusiasm run away with you and lure you into portrait taking thus early. There is a great longing as progress is made to turn out bigger pictures, and that opens another source of interest towards enlarging, which may be taken up later on. When the plates have been exposed, the science of development begins, anil I recommend every one to do their own.

It is inexpensive and intensely fascinating. The bath-room may be used at night, lighted by a red lamp, if no proper "dark room" is at hand. There are many developers to select from. After "going the rounds" I have settled down to “pyro," but for those to whom stained fingers are a consideration, I suggest hydroquinone. As you gently rock the developing dish and experience the joy of seeing your view gradually grow out of the plate, do not allow your feelings to get the better of you and omit the alum bath, thereby finding, to your horror, the films quietly floating off while being washed. This will surely happen if it be summer time.

After thorough washing comes the fixing with “hypo,” that bugbear of beginners, which must be treated with all the respect such an insinuating chemical demands. Then the final wash reveals the beauty anil detail of the negative from which you are to obtain future prints. The art of printing is readily acquired, whether by the sun, a lamp, or match Every packet of paper for printing on contains minute particulars respecting toning, fixing, etc. Failures may be expected, but that need not discourage, as there is no royal road to any art, much less photography.

Eleanor Brown, A C.