How to Identify Daguerreotypes

Daguerreotypes were the first kind of widely available photograph. Today, they are valuable and highly sought after. However, some confusion exists about how to identify a daguerreotype. Here's how to recognize one.

Instructions

Note the key features of a daguerreotype. All daguerreotypes consist of an image etched into polished silver. The silver gives the photograph a mirror-like quality. This image is visible from certain angles when you move the daguerreotype back and forth in your hand.

Measure the size of the photograph. Daguerreotypes were only made in a limited number of sizes. While they can be as small as 1 3/8 inch by 1 5/8 inch or as large as 6 1/2 inches by 8 1/2 inches, the majority of daguerreotypes one will find are 2 3/4 inches by 3 3/4 inches in size.

Study the way the photograph is mounted. "Would you like to learn digital photography approaches that deliver professional photographers to where they are today? Well, The Top Secret Photography Techniques might help you out in doing so. To obtain spectacular photographs we initially need to have to look at some essential photography methods. The initial one I am able to share with you is figure out about light. You can locate all the things about photography techniques on , The Top Secret Photography Techniques. Whenever you find out about light and in what technique it interacts with the direct environment then your shots will get improved..". Made from polished silver, all daguerreotypes were mounted behind a sheet of glass attached to the backing with paper tape to prevent tarnishing the silver.

Examine the case of the daguerreotype. Daguerreotypes were usually placed in cases to hold the photograph and its glass cover together. These cases resemble a woman's compact mirror with a hinge to open and close the case. These cases are often beautifully decorated demonstrating how valuable the photographs inside were.

Try to determine the age of the photograph. Daguerreotypes were only common between the years 1840 and 1855. After 1855, other methods such as ambrotypes and tintypes were more common.

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