Thursday, July 24, 2008

Just Wanted to Share...

I just wanted to share a few of the comments I have received about the Auratone Print Kit:

"I have a degree in mixed media art & printmaking and have always admired the old Orotones....you can only imagine my delight when I ran across your site and found that you have SIMPLIFIED a grueling, yet amazing technique for the modern day artists! You are a hero in my book!

I have been looking for something unique to offer my clients, as well as add to my line of jewelry. I make jewelry for approx 300+ photographers across the US and am always on the lookout for new processes to compliment my jewelry line....I think I just found a new one - THANK YOU for sharing your knowledge and talents....I can see how absolutely addicting it will be ;0)" (from Holly Perona, Otis Orchards, Washington)

"This process is fantastic! You're a genius. I'm tearing up your five dollar check. It's worth the full price." (from Mark Oristano, Dallas, Texas)

"I received the Auratone kit yesterday in the mail (thanks for speedy service) and, of course, I had to try it immediately. Instant gratification! I let it dry overnight and was very happy with the results. I admit, my first attempt was good but not perfect (few too many visible brush strokes and sepia photos looked better than the B&W) but I learned from doing and know that I can correct and improve on my next go round.

My question: There was a little gold solution left in the cup. Can or should this be washed out or just left in it to dry and refil next time over the dried gold?

Same with the brush. Can it be reused? Washed?

Thanks for your help. Love the look and now can't wait to search out new subjects that lend them self to this technique." (from
Sandy Dimke, Beaufort, South Carolina)

Sunday, April 20, 2008

Introducing the Auratone - Guaranteed to make YOU shine!



The Auratone is a process I developed several years ago...I showed it to a few people and watched as their eyes lit up, but then decided to just keep it close to my heart for a while. Then suddenly it felt like the time had come to set it free and share it with others...so here it is: The Auratone Print Kit!

If you’re familiar with early photographic processes like daguerreotypes, ambrotypes, sepiatones, and tintypes, you’ll get this right away. If not, you’re in for an exciting surprise!

Years ago I had seen an original Edward S. Curtis Orotone (circa 1920) at a friend’s house and was completely blown away. Curtis’ Orotones were made in the darkroom where he applied a mixture of gold dust and banana oil to the back of a glass plate print. The results were stunning…when turned over, the gleam of the gold shone through the black-and-white photo for a subtle yet very powerful effect. I started thinking of ways I could accomplish something similar without access to gold dust and banana oil. Early permutations involved the darkroom, glass, and gold leaf...all that, and yet it just didn't really work. Then I had one of those "A-ha!" moments (while in the shower, no less!) and its current incarnation is perfect...simple, classic, and DIGITAL. No darkroom! There is some hand work involved, of course...that's my thing...what to do with our favorite photos "after capture."

No matter what your specialty is, I just know you’ll love making Auratones!

Fine art photographers: Auratones are perfect for unique still lifes, scenics, nudes, and nature studies worthy of a gallery show!

Portrait photographers: Set yourself apart from the competition. Auratones look gorgeous matted and framed!

Wedding photographers: Nothing could be more elegant than an Auratone of the bridal couple…AND you can offer them custom Auratone thank-you notes to send to their guests!

Artists and crafters: There’s no end to the creative applications of an Auratone – on collage, assemblage, photomontage, and altered art.

Everyone: Miniature Auratones adhered to fine card stock make elegant notecards…create your own line of handcrafted cards!

Making an Auratone is easier than you might imagine. Aside from your computer, basic Photoshop (or Photoshop Elements) skills, and a desktop printer, everything you need is in the kit. If you’re curious but just not quite ready to buy the kit, for a limited time I’m offering an introductory special - to see the effect, purchase an Auratone notecard and receive a coupon entitling you to $5 off the regular price of the kit. Visit My Shop at www.bsmithphotography.com.

The kits will be available for shipping beginning June 1st.

Note: Auratone kits are for adults only…not intended for kids!

Saturday, April 19, 2008

Oprah!

Here’s my idea for a show: “Pregnant celebrities grace the covers of national magazines. Celebrate YOUR pregnancy and baby in style, like a star, with a photo session, custom birth announcements, and much more. Barbara Smith will show you how!” What do you think? Any other ideas?? Know anyone associated with the show? !?

Martha Stewart

I sent a copy of "Baby Face," samples, and a show idea (faux letterpress wedding invitations and/or birth announcements) to Martha Stewart and actually received a positive response! Well, no, not from the lady herself but someone involved with producing her show. Very exciting! But now, even though I’ve been assured they’re “just waiting for an opening,” I haven’t been able to get any more details. If and when I do, I will definitely let you know. In the meantime, please send positive thoughts!

In the spirit of visualization (if you've seen/read "The Secret," you'll know what I'm talking about) here's a MOCK still from the "taping." Don't try to play it...it's just pretend! The magic of Photoshop...that's even my first book in her hands!!