A happy intro to the 19th century

[Mark Sampson]

Sunday I went to a local (Tucson) camera show/swap meet, hosted by the Western Photo Historical Society.
Along with the usual tables, this forum's Mark Sawyer was there, giving demos of wet-plate photography. Not only that, he was giving out free portraits! Although I've known several wet-plate photographers, this was the first time I've seen the method in action. Mr. Sawyer was busy throughout the show, and was ably assisted by our own Garrett (goamules). There were plenty of interested onlookers, including myself.
Mark was kind enough to make an alumitype portrait of me- which I was able to take home to my wife as a present. She was very pleased to have it (and she has wet-plate experience herself).
So a big shout-out to Mr. Sawyer and his mentor Garrett! Thanks guys!

[Mark Sawyer]

Thank you, Mark! It was a fun, if exhausting day, setting up and tearing down the darkroom and studio for one day's shooting. (It was my fifth year doing it.) Made fourteen portraits, and all came out at least reasonably well! And thanks to Garrett for his help! You'll have to come over soon and pour and shoot a wet plate or two yourself!