The daguerreotype is one of the world’s oldest photographic processes. It was actually the first commercially successful means of photography dating back to the early 19th century. It involves recording an image on a special silvered copper plate. For not making use of technological advances, the result is quite stunning, standing up to anything produced with 21st century know-how. Photography, it seems, has simply become more convenient, not more beautiful.
Unfortunately, there are not many daguerreotype photographers left in the world. The process is difficult and dangerous. One of these rare photographers, however, is active right here in Yokohama: Arai Takashi.
The Yokohama Civic Art Gallery Azamino will be featuring his work between January 28th and February 26th. The exhibition, entitled “Bright was the Morning,” is free and open to the public. His images are haunting and breathtaking. They are a reminder that sometimes the old ways are worth keeping alive.