Fotochrome

Fotochrome is a name that has appeared in relation to several color photography products and processes rather than a single, standardized technique. The term does not denote one specific method; instead, it has served as a brand or marketing designation for various color-related products in the 20th century, including film emulsions, printing papers, and image transfer processes. The combination of the roots photo- and chrome reflects its association with color reproduction in photography.

In historical use, sources describe Fotochrome items in different contexts. Some catalogs reference color transparencies or negatives sold under the Fotochrome label, while others mention printing media or related materials bearing the same name. Because Fotochrome was often a branding choice rather than a formal technical standard, the exact formulation, performance, and archival characteristics varied by manufacturer and era. As a result, materials labeled Fotochrome appear in collections and literature as brands rather than as a single cohesive technology.

In contemporary discussions, Fotochrome is frequently encountered as a vintage or collector’s reference. It is sometimes mentioned alongside other color photography developments such as Autochrome, Kodachrome, and dye-transfer, highlighting its place in the broader history of color reproduction. For researchers and collectors, distinguishing among different Fotochrome products typically requires examining original catalogs, labels, and technical data from the respective producers.

See also: Autochrome, Kodachrome, Dye-transfer, Color photography.