

A daguerreotype is one of the earliest forms of photography, introduced by French inventor Louis Daguerre in 1839. This early photographic process creates an image on a silver-plated copper sheet through a series of steps involving light and chemical reactions.
To make a daguerreotype, a copper plate is coated with silver and then exposed to iodine vapors, creating a light-sensitive surface. The plate is then inserted in a camera and exposed to light. After exposure, the image is developed using mercury vapor, which reacts with the silver iodide to reveal the photograph. Finally, the image is fixed with sodium thiosulfate to make it permanent.
Daguerreotypes are known for their exceptional detail and clarity, offering a mirror-like finish that gives them an almost three-dimensional appearance. Despite the labor-intensive process and the delicate nature of the final product, daguerreotypes were immensely popular in the 1840’s and early 1850’s.

Primarily used for portraiture, daguerreotypes captured the likenesses of individuals and families during a time when photography was new. They also documented landscapes, architecture, and significant events, providing a valuable historical record.
The daguerreotype represents a significant milestone in photographic history, blending artistry with scientific discovery. These early photographs continue to captivate, offering a vivid glimpse into our past.
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For more on the history of photography, visit my post: ‘Early Photographs: A Brief History of Photography’.

~ Family Legacy Videos ~
Give your parent or grandparent the gift of a lifetime by capturing their life story for your family to know!

Here at Family Tree Video, we produce Legacy Videos, modern-day memoirs that weave a filmed interview with a parent or grandparent together with family photos, documents, maps and other memorabilia. The result is a beautiful “moving portrait” capturing your loved one sharing their life story, family history and memories – a gift your family will treasure for generations to come.
To learn more about giving the gift of a Legacy Video, visit us at FamilyTreeVideo.com.
Family Tree Video LLC
Legacy Video Production
Since 2008
Susan Saunders
(312) 402-6406
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Daguerreotype

Daguerreotype

Legacy Videos
Capturing Life Stories & Family History
for Future Generations
~ The Gift of a Lifetime ~

“There are only two lasting bequests we can give our children.
One is roots, and the other, wings.” H. S. Carter

Family Tree Video
Video Biographies ~ Family History Videos ~ Video Memoirs
Family Documentaries ~ Anniversary Videos
Video Tributes ~ Heirloom Videos
Daguerreotype
~ Legacy Videos ~
