re:why not gelatin

Jennifer Kolar (jkolar@monsoon.colorado.edu)
Wed, 14 May 1997 08:22:38 -0600 (MDT)

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> <2) I would like to use a photographic process (including recording the
> image)
> <that does not include gelatin at any stage
> Chris,
> Why NOT use gelatine? Are you using film to record the negative? We
> are told they use gelatine to make films.
>
> Judy wrote re. flat salt prints....
> <Consider trying a harder and/or better sized paper
>
> Sized with what? Kosher gelatine? Maybe Kentmere would
> make a special batch.
> Chris, Please tell us why you do not wish to use gelatine. You have
> not, yourself mentioned animals.
> With nailbiting interest. John-Photographist

I will let Chris speak for himself, but as for me...

I too am interested in finding processes which do not use gelatin, or
other animal products. Other than my use of film and papers for
my photographic work, I live a strict vegan lifestyle.

My first interest in a different emulsion is thus ethical. Second,
I would like to get away from silver processes as they require
particularily toxic chemicals, which I would also like to avoid
spreading around, so to speak.

Yes, film does use gelatin, but I guess that is Chris' main question, and
also mine, as it is not so difficult to size paper w/o gelatin.
Although, I have appreciated hte discussion on this topic, and would
love more ideas.
What are possible ways of coating materials, either transparent or opaque
for use in some sort of camera,as either sheet or roll film, which would not
involve gelatin?

It seems that w/ the minds on this list and experience w/ processes that
people would have some ideas.

I have used gum w/ success on 16mm film, but that was applying the
gum atop a cleared gelatin-based film , for the gum needs a surface to
adhere to. Is there some material which will adhere to mylar or film
strips which does not have a gelatin or other such base? Namely, is
there some other material which can be attached as a base?

Thanks
Jennifer Kolar