The Process

Historic black and white historic photos are acquired. All photos that I use are public domain except for a few where a studio provided permission. The photos are cleaned first as many of the old negatives have deteriorated over time and have left holes and black spots on the original negatives. This has been especially true of the Civil War Series which were all on large glass plates. Once the photos have been cleaned, they are printed on a special photographic paper. A special oil mixture is then applied lightly to provide color. The colors are blended well and in many layers to give an old as well as a real life look. The intention is to enhance the subject matter rather than hide or change it.