Poplars—Lake George 1935

Alfred Stieglitz made this photograph of Poplars at Lake George using a gelatin silver printing process. This was a popular method in the early 20th century, involving a light-sensitive emulsion on paper. Stieglitz was captivated by the interplay of light and shadow, transforming a simple landscape into a study of tonal range. Note the rich blacks and delicate grays. Photography, in Stieglitz's hands, moved beyond mere documentation. His approach was as much about material manipulation as it was about capturing a scene. By emphasizing the unique qualities of the gelatin silver process, Stieglitz elevated photography to the level of fine art. It is a medium that allowed for both precision and artistic expression, demanding a balance of technical skill and creative vision. This fusion of craft and art challenged conventional hierarchies, inviting viewers to appreciate the work of a photographer as much as a painter or sculptor.