WORKSHOP: PORTRAIT ON WET PLATE | WITH MARCUS GABRIEL
© Marcus Gabriel
KOLLODIUM-WET-PLATE-PROCESS
Photoworkshop
The collodion wet plate process is one of the most fascinating photographic techniques of the 19th century—a combination of chemistry, craftsmanship, and artistic intuition. Unlike digital photography, each image produced through this method becomes a unique object: created on glass or metal, directly at the moment of its making. The process is slow and precise, yet at the same time surprisingly dynamic.
In this one-day workshop at the Fotomuseum WestLicht, we will explore the world of wet plate photography together. The workshop is led by Marcus Gabriel. Step by step, the individual phases of the process will be introduced—from coating the plate with collodion, to sensitizing it in a silver bath, to exposing and developing the plate while it is still wet. The focus is not only on technique, but also on developing an understanding of the unique character of this historical method.
The workshop is primarily aimed at photographers with an interest in alternative processes and experimental working methods. Prior knowledge is helpful but not required—curious beginners are also very welcome.
Date: Sun., 21 June 2026, 9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. (including a break)
Participation fee: €280 full price | €230 reduced (for students up to age 27)
Language: German
Number of participants: max. 12 participants; the workshop will take place with a minimum of 6 participants
Location:
Fotomuseum WestLicht, Westbahnstraße 40, 1070 Vienna
Together we will explore a photographic process that demands time, attention, and manual work—and precisely for that reason produces images that are unique in their materiality and depth. For questions or further information about the detailed schedule, please feel free to contact us at vermittlung@westlicht.com.
About the instructor
Born in Vienna in 1967, Marcus Gabriel has lived in Trieste since 1993. In 1997 he founded Doctor Photo – Workshop for Analog Photography, where he developed a special interest in historical and experimental photographic processes. In 2014 he discovered the collodion wet plate process during a workshop with Borut Peterlin, and it has since become one of his preferred photographic forms of expression. His work includes both documentary and artistic photography. He participated in “The Mask Series” by Shane Balkovitch and has presented his work in various exhibitions and workshops as part of Trieste Photo Days.