Back to photostream

161. Notes for a Nodark Portable Tintype Lab (for Weegee)

 

atelier ying, nyc.

 

Less is known of Weegee's early photographic training years doing tintype work as an apprentice. He was a master darkroom technician before he did his street activities.

 

A 1598 engraving entitled,

"Dat Rosa Mel Apibus" is from the history of alchemy, for which the darkroom process (especially the portable tintype here) is a modern day metaphor. The symbol of the wisdom and suffering of the alchemical rose is particularly apt in recalling Weegee's life before he became a celebrity. This stylized medieval rose is used to modify the lens-shutter housing on the original Nodark.

 

The tintype camera will need very long exposures, which justifies the use of a pull out bookcase (adapted from furniture design) with magazines, plants and lounging items. The mechanism to read magazines will be introduced in a later design featuring the Premograph camera.

 

Design, text and drawing are copyright 2014 by David Lo.

17,836 views
20 faves
8 comments
Uploaded on January 6, 2014
Taken on January 6, 2014