Can we learn from a turn of the century photographer? I mean turn of the 19th century. John Calvin Brewster is no Ansel Adams, but he had a thriving business for over 30 years.
While on vacation I visited the Museum of Ventura County.
http://www.venturamuseum.org/
John Brewster was the first photographer in Ventura county. He arrived in 1874. For each of his pictures, he had to coat the 4x5 glass plate, mix the chemicals to produce the flash (if used), mix chemicals to develop the plate and finally print the picture which included a embossed logo of his own design. In other words he did it all, every step. But what did he photograph for his business.
He did weddings, high school portraits, Family portraits, children, babies, commercial, partial aerial (from atop mountains, he didn't have a plane), self portraits, and a natural light studio. He also had an assisting photographer Mrs. Woodward.
In his studio was a large room. He could create different sets. Moving in various items to create a set for each customer. He had furniture, drapes (aka backgrounds), flowers, etc.
Below are just a few pictures as an example.
What I learned is that I have it real easy. I don't have to mess with chemicals. I don't have to create my film. I don't have to print my photographs myself.
I also learned that I have a long way to go, to be someone that can do all this. Check out the window light in the roof of the studio he had. He did it all. I wonder what he could do with a 5D?
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