Autochrome c1908-10 – see Cally Blackman’s video
Toronto. From the beginnings of photography until the early 1900s, photographic processes were all monochrome – unless the image was hand coloured!
Around the turn of the 20th century, a variety of additive colour processes were invented, the best of the bunch appears to have been Autochrome. First marketed around 1907, it continued to be a glass-plate-only product until 1930 when it moved to film, only to disappear a few years later when it was replaced in the market by newer (and faster) subtractive processes such as Kodachrome.
During its reign, Autochrome portraits displayed the latest in fashionably attractive clothes. Recently Cynthia Motzenbecker sent me a Youtube link to a short British video by Cally Blackman, part of the Royal Photographic Society (RPS) materials. The Blackman video covers Autochrome and fashion from 1907-1930.
The image at upper left, “C1908-10 La broche de pâquerettes:© Collection AN, Paris”, is from Cally’s video. Please note that Autochromes are naturally soft and low contrast. This image was slightly electronically sharpened and increased in contrast.
While you may find an Autochrome at one of our 2025 events, we can’t say for sure, BUT we can say you will find an item to complement your collection! Our next event is the famous fall fair initiated by the late Larry Boccioletti. It will be held October 19th at Trident Hall. PHSC News 25-7 carries the poster and details. Don’t miss it!
