Julia Margaret Cameron primarily used a Petzval type camera lens made by Jamin of Paris for her iconic portraiture and allegorical photographs. This specific lens was instrumental in creating the distinctive aesthetic of her work during the mid-19th century.
Understanding the Petzval Lens
The Petzval lens, first designed in 1840 by Joseph Petzval, was revolutionary for its time due to its exceptionally large aperture. This allowed for significantly faster exposure times compared to other lenses available, which was a critical advantage when working with the relatively slow photographic processes of the Victorian era, such as the collodion wet plate process Cameron favored.
A characteristic feature of the Petzval design is its sharpness in the center of the image, often accompanied by a distinctive swirly or soft bokeh (background blur) and a gradual fall-off of sharpness towards the edges. This unique optical signature contributed to the ethereal and artistic quality seen in many of Cameron's photographs, emphasizing the subject's face while creating a painterly background.
Julia Margaret Cameron's Jamin Petzval Lens
Cameron's specific lens was manufactured by Jamin of Paris, a reputable optical instrument maker of the period. This particular lens is now part of the Victoria and Albert Museum's collection, offering a tangible link to her photographic practice.
Lens Specifications and Description
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Jamin of Paris |
| Lens Type | Petzval |
| Physical Form | Cylindrical camera lens made of brass and glass |
| Distinguishing Marks | One large knob protruding from the side and another smaller knob on top |
| Current Location | V&A Museum Collection |
The brass and glass construction was typical for lenses of this era, known for their robust build quality. The knobs described were likely used for focusing or adjusting the aperture, allowing Cameron to fine-tune her images. The possession of such a high-quality lens from Jamin underscores Cameron's commitment to her craft and her access to advanced photographic equipment.
