Renowned platinum photographer Tom Millea will be featured in the January/February 2010 issue of Photo technique. Tom has been teaching workshops across the country for years, sharing his expertise on the subject of quality platinum printing with all who are eager to learn. However, the portfolio and accompanying article in the upcoming issue explore Millea’s latest photographic ventures, sans platinum.
When the specific chemistry, papers and film that he had used for decades were discontinued one by one, Millea made a firm decision to stand up for his artistic ambitions and explore new avenues. In addition to his initial unfamiliarity with digital processes, Millea also had to deal with the scrutiny of fellow film photographers who saw little or no value in the digital translation of the medium.
In the featured article, Millea describes his range of experiences in this process, from frustration and disappointment to excitement and rejuvenation, as he found new means of expressing his photographic vision. To begin working in unchartered photographic territory, especially after mastering such a complex technique and developing his own rich and delicate style, is a testament to Millea’s dedication to the medium and its endless potential- whatever form it may take.
Make sure to check out the full article in Tom’s words and see the beautiful prints for yourself.
Have you dealt with similar frustrating issues such as discontinued supplies? What role do you think technique plays? Is it a means to an end, or the end itself? How do you think photographic education should approach the rift between film and digital?
