Albumen Printing

JRR (jrphotog@bigfoot.com)
Wed, 29 Apr 1998 17:03:09 -0400

I have a couple of questions for the list dealing with albumen
printing. I have followed the instructions in both James Reilly's book
and the Silver Sunbeam, and had problems with fogging. It seems that
when I harden the first coat with the salted alcohol the salt soaks into
the paper and when sensitized the silver migrates back and all my
highlights fog. I have tried it with unsalted alcohol and do not get the
fog.

The questions I have are is the salt in the alcohol needed, I know some
salt will be washed out, but how much? All the formulas I have read only
use two layers of albumen would three make for a smoother image with
richer "blacks"?

I have a few sheets ready to sensitize with three layers, also some
with a gelatin, high bloom, and three layers of albumen.

Any thoughts?

Thanks
Jonathan