Scott Mueller is an American photographer currently living and traveling in Europe. He’s best known for his Polaroid work and his photographs using alternative photographic techniques.
My Journey with alternative photographic processes.
As an avid photographer, I have always found myself irresistibly drawn to the allure of old alternative photographic processes. Methods like Bromoil and Gum printing capture my imagination in a way that modern digital techniques simply cannot replicate. The ability to create unique and tangible, one-of-a-kind images through these processes has been an integral part of my artistic journey.
In the past I’ve thrived on immediate results and instant gratification but working with most alternative processes requires a different mindset and demands a slower, more deliberate approach, urging me to carefully consider each shot before pressing the shutter, fine-tuning my composition. Exposure settings becomes more critical than ever. Contrary to popular belief, not every image has value, and as film and materials are finite resources, i become more intentional and thoughtful in my craft.
One of the greatest rewards of working with alt. processes is the unique aesthetic they offer. The dreamlike quality, soft colors, and inherent imperfections add a certain whimsy and depth to the final image. Alternative photographic processes provide a counterbalance to the hustle and bustle, a reminder to slow down, embrace the moment, and appreciate the beauty in imperfections.