Wet Plate Photography Worker
しっぱんしゃしんこう
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Specialized technical occupation that uses the collodion wet plate method on glass plates for photography, development, and fixing.
Description
Wet plate photography workers use the collodion wet plate method that became popular in the 19th century to perform sensitization, development, fixing, and printing on glass plates. They conduct darkroom processing using chemical agents both inside and outside the studio, requiring high precision and meticulous handwork. The work demands photography techniques and understanding of chemical processes, including management of lighting and exposure times, preparation of sensitizing solutions and developers, and mastery of numerous steps through skilled craftsmanship.
Future Outlook
Although it has become a rare skill in an era dominated by digital technology, demand continues in vintage photography and art fields. Opportunities for instruction in workshops and educational institutions are also expected.
Personality Traits
Dexterous hands and skilled in detailed work / Excellent aesthetic sense / Meticulous and careful / Patient
Work Style
Location Shooting / Sole Proprietor / Studio Photography
Career Path
Apprentice Wet Plate Photography Worker → Studio Photographer → Fine Art Photographer
Required Skills
Chemical Preparation and Handling / Collodion Wet Plate Method / Darkroom Development Technique / Large Format Camera Operation
Recommended Skills
Composition / Digital Scanning / Hand Coloring Technique / Photography Techniques
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because high accuracy is needed in chemical preparation and exposure time management. |
| Creativity & Ideation | Because artistic composition and creative ideas are required. |
| Learning Agility & Knowledge Acquisition | Because motivation to acquire photography techniques and chemical processes is important. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Because it does not require advanced mathematical analysis. |
Aliases
- Collodion Wet Plate Photography Technician
- Wet Collodion Photography Worker
Related Jobs
- Cameraman
- Photo Technician
- Photographer