Abstract:
Photography is undergoing a revolution, as profound as when
glass plates were replaced by acetate film. No longer are photographers
reliant on darkrooms, and often poisonous chemicals
to process their films. Images can now be recorded in digital
form using conventional cameras fitted with special backs containing
electronic form, loaded into a computer where they can
be enhanced, manipulated or analysed, and the output directly
to printing plates, or high quality paper printer. There is no
fundamental change in the way pictures are taken - photographers
still need the skills of lighting and composition,
but now have far greater control over the image. By the same
token their role is changing, no longer are they just photographers,
they require to transmit the image via a computer,
and a result on paper. The barriers between printer, photographer
and designer are becoming blurred.
This script explains the new technologies of electronic imaging.
It looks at the past, future, predictions and the advantages and
disadvantages between traditional and digital photography. A
range of cameras and printers are also mentioned. It also shows
how I went about getting to my final images. There are also a
variety of images included to show you, the reader, what results
can be achieved.
Although the traditional skills of the photographer will not
change, anyone working in the field of imageing needs to
change their working methods if they are to survive in this
rapid expanding field of technology.
