Daguerreotypes | Installation of contemporary daguerreotypes
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by
Carlos Darío Albornoz
To think about working with daguerreotypes is to think about a photographic vision that entails a lot of difficulties and special technical conditions, but also a different photographic aesthetic.
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| Self Portrait © Carlos Darío Albornoz |
The photographic process started since Daguerre presented his picture making process to the Paris Science Academy in 1839, and continues up to date. The Daguerreotype, a most wonderful invention, is the oldest photographic process and I can proudly say that I am the only photographer in Latin American still using it today.
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1837 Daguerre’s first daguerreotype |
These are images taken directly onto a polished copper plate covered in silver. After exposing to the light with the camera, the image is developed with mercury vapors. It has taken many hours of work and a lot of experimenting for me to master this process, which is so slow and difficult for this century’s high speed. One of the most important aspects is that there is no negative, and infinite copying is not possible, therefore, each daguerreotype is unique and represents the uniqueness of time, space and photographed subject. Certainly every photo has these characteristics, but the daguerreotype has the exclusivity and the intimacy of the image. .
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Daniel |
Victoria © Carlos Darío Albornoz |
The daguerreotype is a device that is according to the time of its inventors. I compare ancient processes to riding a horse, when you get on them, they know where to go, we barely conduct them. In contrast, when driving a car, the slightest distraction provokes an accident.
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| Superimposed © Carlos Darío Albornoz |
Daguerreotypes are very different from a modern photo, they need many seconds, even minutes to print. The models have to be willing to remain still and believe in the photographer, and also are calm and relaxed so their eyes convey tranquility and patience. There are no hardened or forced expressions, no fake smiles. Contrary to a painting, the viewer needs to get very close to see the daguerreotype, which renders a special kind of intimate communication between the viewer and the photographed person or object.
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| The kids © Carlos Darío Albornoz |
Daguerreotypes | Installation of contemporary daguerreotypes