Original Wet Plate Collodion Photograph taken on Japanesed aluminium metal plate.
Wet Plate Photography – Hawick Horse Statue
This image features a wet plate photograph of the iconic horse statue in Hawick, captured using a historic photographic process that dates back to the 1850s. Combining traditional technique with a well-known local landmark, the result is a striking, timeless piece of fine art photography.
The character and texture created through wet plate collodion perfectly complement the heritage and presence of the statue itself.
A Historic Process Meets a Historic Subject
Wet plate photography is one of the earliest photographic techniques, producing images on metal or glass using light-sensitive chemicals and hand-crafted methods.
Unlike modern digital photography:
- Each plate is created individually
- The process is entirely manual
- Subtle marks and imperfections add character
- No two images are ever identical
Photographing a historic Hawick landmark using this process creates a natural connection between past and present, enhancing the sense of history within the image.
The Hawick Horse Statue
The horse statue is a recognisable symbol within Hawick, closely associated with the town’s heritage and traditions.
Capturing it using wet plate photography adds:
- A timeless, vintage aesthetic
- Strong contrast and texture
- A fine art quality suited to display
- A unique interpretation of a familiar subject
This approach transforms a well-known landmark into something more artistic and distinctive.
Why Wet Plate Photography?
Wet plate collodion offers a completely different feel to modern photography.
- Rich tones and depth
- A tactile, handcrafted finish
- A slower, more considered process
- Images with real presence and individuality
It’s ideal for subjects with history and character—making it a perfect fit for Hawick’s iconic features.
Fine Art Photography Inspired by Local Heritage
Creating images like this allows me to explore photography in a more artistic way, while still celebrating local identity.
From landmarks and architecture to unique subjects, wet plate photography offers a fresh perspective on familiar scenes—turning them into statement pieces for your home or collection.
