This is another post that really doesn't fit into another category, and since it does pertain to learning, I'm posting it here.
Another thread prompted this one. Since an ambrotype can be laterally correct or laterally reversed, I assume that happens because of the direction of the glass plate when put into the camera. In other words, with the collodion side closer to the lens, a laterally reversed image would be seen (just like a modern day negative). If it were reversed, a laterally correct image would be seen. Am I right about the direction of insertion into the camera being the reason for both types to be found?
This brings up a question of gender. Since the mid 19th century (I think) until after the beginning of the 20th century, the hair of a boy would have been parted slightly towards the right side, thereby making gender identifiable (if I remember the other post correctly on this). But since ambrotypes could be laterally correct or incorrect can gender assumption be made with reasonable accuracy? Was a girl's hair always parted right down the middle? If so, then it seems we could judge the gender by a part towards either side, as being a boy. Comments?
Ed
Another thread prompted this one. Since an ambrotype can be laterally correct or laterally reversed, I assume that happens because of the direction of the glass plate when put into the camera. In other words, with the collodion side closer to the lens, a laterally reversed image would be seen (just like a modern day negative). If it were reversed, a laterally correct image would be seen. Am I right about the direction of insertion into the camera being the reason for both types to be found?
This brings up a question of gender. Since the mid 19th century (I think) until after the beginning of the 20th century, the hair of a boy would have been parted slightly towards the right side, thereby making gender identifiable (if I remember the other post correctly on this). But since ambrotypes could be laterally correct or incorrect can gender assumption be made with reasonable accuracy? Was a girl's hair always parted right down the middle? If so, then it seems we could judge the gender by a part towards either side, as being a boy. Comments?
Ed
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