An alt question-some thoughts on

SCHRAMMR@WLSVAX.WVNET.EDU
Sat, 01 Nov 1997 11:06:23 -0500 (EST)

In my own humble opinion, I would consider any photographic printing
process "alternative" when it results in a "look" unlike that of
"straight" gelatin-silver prints. After all, that is how we first began
using the term "alternative process," which is a fairly current usage.
Not to long ago the term "non-silver" was used along with several others.

Keeping this in mind, I would certainly include Daguerreotype, Ambrotype,
tintype, albumen prints, polaroid transfer, photo-silkscreen, emulsion
transfer, gum, cyanotype, kallitype (and VDB), platinotype, paladotype,
flourotype, uranotype, gum prints, casein prints, gumoil, etc. etc.
You get the picture. If you want a longer list, see Luis' encyclopedia.

I do not believe there exists a formal definition other than what those
of us practicing "the art" believe it to be and I'll bet the responses
demonstrate that there is no general agreement about this.

Some time back there was a very interesting discussion about what we
should call ourselves. That was never settled, but it was fun.

Keep on printing,

Bob Schramm