Waterval in Telemark 1892

This photograph, "Waterval in Telemark," was taken by Richard Andvord. It is a silver gelatin print, a process that gained popularity in the late 19th century due to its relative ease and reproducibility. Consider what is captured, and how. The gelatin emulsion, coated on the paper, is key. It contains light-sensitive silver halide crystals. During exposure, these crystals undergo a chemical change, which is then developed to reveal the image. The resulting tones, from the deepest blacks to the subtlest grays, depend on the quality of the emulsion and the expertise of the photographer. Here, Andvord captures the raw energy of the waterfall, its cascading water rendered in exquisite detail. But more than just a pretty picture, this photograph reflects a shift in how we began to see and document the world, facilitated by technology. Photography democratized image-making, challenging traditional art forms and redefining our relationship with reality.