Opalotypes are a type of photographic print that has been around since the late 1800s.

They were created by James W. Queen, who was an American photographer and inventor.

Opalotypes were popular during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and they were known for their unique appearance and durability.

In this article, we will take a closer look at Opalotype photography, its history, and how it is created.

What is an Opalotype?

An Opalotype is a photographic print that is created by coating a thin sheet of glass with a mixture of egg whites and silver nitrate.

The glass is then exposed to a negative, and the resulting image is developed using a special type of developer.

The end result is a print that has a unique opalescent quality and a depth that is not found in other types of photographic prints.

The History of Opalotype Photography

Opalotypes were first introduced in the late 1800s by James W. Queen. Queen was a photographer and inventor who was known for his innovative techniques and equipment.

He was also a prolific writer, and he wrote several articles on photography, including one on the creation of Opalotypes.

Opalotypes quickly became popular among photographers and artists, and they were used to create portraits, landscapes, and still lifes.

They were also used for advertising and commercial purposes, and they were considered to be one of the most durable types of photographic prints.

However, the popularity of Opalotypes began to wane in the early 20th century as other types of photographic prints became more popular.

Today, Opalotypes are considered to be a rare and valuable type of photographic print, and they are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.

Creating an Opalotype

Creating an Opalotype is a complex process that requires a great deal of skill and patience.

The first step in creating an Opalotype is to prepare the glass plate.

This involves cleaning the glass and coating it with a mixture of egg whites and silver nitrate.

The glass is then left to dry, and it is ready to be exposed to a negative.

The next step is to expose the glass plate to a negative.

This is done using a special type of camera that is designed to hold the glass plate and the negative in place.

The exposure time can vary depending on the type of negative and the lighting conditions, but it typically ranges from a few seconds to several minutes.

Once the glass plate has been exposed, it is developed using a special type of developer.

The developer is applied to the glass plate, and it is left to sit for several minutes.

The developer is then rinsed off, and the Opalotype is left to dry.

Opalotype Characteristics

Opalotypes have several unique characteristics that set them apart from other types of photographic prints.

One of the most notable characteristics of Opalotypes is their opalescent quality.

This gives them a depth and a luminosity that is not found in other types of photographic prints.

Opalotypes also have a unique texture that is created by the coating of egg whites and silver nitrate.

This texture gives them a tactile quality that is not found in other types of photographic prints.

Opalotypes are also known for their durability.

Because they are created on glass, they are less susceptible to damage from moisture and light.

They can also be easily cleaned and restored, making them a popular choice for collectors and enthusiasts.

Opalotype Preservation

Preserving Opalotypes is a delicate process that requires special care and attention.

Because they are created on glass, Opalotypes are susceptible to damage from moisture and light.

They should be stored in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight.

Opalotypes should also be handled with care.

They should be cleaned using a soft, lint-free cloth and a gentle cleaning solution.

They should never be exposed to water or harsh chemicals, as this can damage the print.

Opalotype Photography – Summary

Opalotype photography is a unique and mysterious world that has been around for over a century.

Despite its popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it is now considered to be a rare and valuable type of photographic print.

Opalotypes are known for their opalescent quality, their unique texture, and their durability.

They require special care and attention to preserve, but they are a valuable addition to any collection.