Coming into Focus: A Step-by-Step Guide to Alternative Photographic Printing Processes (Paperback)

~ John Barnier (Author, Editor) "There is no accurate way to pinpoint the true beginning of photography because of the great number of developments in optics and chemistry that came..." (more)
Key Phrases: traditional cyanotype, potassium oxalate developer, collodion formula, Solution Use, Russell Young, Terry King (more...)

Editorial Reviews

Product Description

The only comprehensive, how-to guide to antique and contemporary photo processes, from daguerreotype to digital, Coming Into Focus is the essential reference for the amateur and professional photographer. The mysterious and beautiful processes used by historic and modern art photographers-many of which don't require a formal darkroom-are revealed here in simple, step-by-step instructions and photographic illustrations by internationally recognized experts, with each method carefully reviewed for safety and ease of use.The many "non-traditional" processes detailed here offer photographers exciting alternatives to standard methods-opening up whole new worlds of creative expression. With practical, lay-flat binding, all-inclusive materials lists, a resource guide, and in-depth chapters on chemicals, paper, and equipment, Coming Into Focus is an indispensable, handbook for any photographer in search of answers and inspiration.

About the Author

John Barnier has worked as a professional photographer for over twenty years and is a contributing editor to Camera View magazine He lives in Northern Minnesota.

Product Details

• Paperback: 320 pages
• Publisher: Chronicle Books (August 15, 2000)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0811818942
• ISBN-13: 978-0811818940
• Product Dimensions: 9.3 x 8.6 x 1.2 inches
• Shipping Weight: 3.2 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (6 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #72,150 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

62 of 64 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A nice addition to any alt-photo library, September 12, 2000

By	J Steiner - See all my reviews

A compelling blend of traditional processes takes on new life with new, improved chemical formats and digital techniques. Any artist working in alternative processes arrives, sooner or later, at their own individual methods and unique combinations of techniques. This book provides many examples of working formulas that build upon and further develope the traditional standard favorites. The "recipes" are clearly detailed in an easy-to-follow textbook format, with such new processes as the Fredrick Temperaprint (a tricolor system based on gum dichromate) and the Argyrotype (an iron-silver process similar to Van Dyke). It also seamlessly incorporates the digital technology we rely on more and more.

It's given me a wealth of new ideas and projects to try out, and is sure to become an invaluable resource in my own darkroom.

32 of 32 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars An Excellent, Well Written Book, May 27, 2002

By A Customer

I whole-heartedly recommend this book. I also have "The Book of Alternative Photographic Processes" by Christopher James, another good book, but I always go back to "Coming into Focus". This book is laid out in a very accessible manner, each section is written clearly and concisely, and the processes are described so that you understand and can start experimenting almost immediately (once you acquire the necessary materials for the relevant process). Again, this book is a very useful one, and a handy reference to have around.

8 of 8 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Coming Into Focus, October 13, 2005

By	Suzanne Ludlum-loose (USA) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

This is a wonderful book that tells you everything you want to know about alternative printing processes. I used to have "Keepers of Light" but lost it, so I ordered this as a replacement. It contains everything the other book did, plus information on using digital technology. A real resource for any serious photographer who is a purest at heart and wants to keep the old traditions alive.
Suzanne Ludlum-Loose