bromoil

Bromoil is an alternative photographic printing process that produces a unique, painterly effect. It involves bleaching a bromide print, which renders the silver image into a metallic silver-bromide compound that is no longer soluble in water. This bleached print is then soaked in a special oil-based ink. The ink preferentially adheres to the less bleached areas of the print, which correspond to the darker tones of the original image.

The photographer then uses brushes, rollers, or rags to selectively transfer the ink onto the print, building up the image. This manual inking process allows for considerable artistic control, enabling the printer to modify highlights, shadows, and mid-tones, and to add texture and detail. The final image can resemble an oil painting, hence the name "bromoil."

The bromoil process requires a specific set of chemicals for bleaching and a specially formulated ink. The success of the process depends on careful control of the bleaching and inking stages, as well as the photographer's skill in manipulating the ink. Bromoil prints are known for their rich tonality, subtle textures, and unique aesthetic qualities, making them a popular choice for photographers seeking a distinctive artistic expression. The process was developed in the early 20th century and saw a resurgence of interest among art photographers in the mid-20th century.