Sabatier effect, the tone reversal of an image, partial or complete, produced when an exposed photographic emulsion is briefly re-exposed to white light during development. It has often, but incorrectly, been referred to as solarization or pseudo-solarization.
The effect was first recorded in 1860 by Armand Sabatier (1834-1910), who observed the phenomenon when daylight fell on developing wet collodion plates. Similarly, it may be seen in the modern darkroom following accidental re-exposure. However, using careful manipulation of exposure and development techniques, it has been dramatically exploited by photographers such as Man Ray and Erwin Blumenfeld.
The aim of most photographers seeking to exploit the effect is to produce a part positive, part negative image. The typical final result is a negative image produced by the original exposure and development, overlaid by the positive image produced by the re-exposure and development. Appearance depends on several factors, including the kind of original photographic material used, the relative length of first and second development times, and the timing and duration of the re-exposure. Under certain controlled conditions images can be formed where parts of the subject are outlined with delicate white lines, giving the appearance of an etching. Variations are possible, such as using positive and negative originals to give double white lines. The technique is difficult to master and may require much trial and error. To be most effective, sharp high-contrast originals are essential and simple subjects with strong linear elements are recommended.
— John P. Ward
Bibliography
- Life Library of Photography: The Print (1972)
