In this monochromatic silver gelatin print, we’re presented with a candid and poignant portrait of a young boy selling strings of sampaguita, also known as Philippine jasmine, a flower that carries deep cultural and religious significance in the Philippines. The setting outside a Catholic church in Pampanga, Philippines, suggests that the sampaguitas may be offered by churchgoers as a symbol of reverence and purity.

The boy’s direct gaze into the camera lens communicates a narrative that is at once personal and universal. His expression is contemplative and perhaps hints at the weight of responsibility that comes with his task. The detail and wide tonal range of the print bring forth the textures of his clothing, the delicate strands of flowers, and the paved ground beneath him, each contributing to the storytelling quality of the image.

Shot with a Leica M6 TTL rangefinder camera on Kodak Tri-X 400 film, the photograph would exhibit the sharpness and dynamic range for which both the camera and film are renowned. Kodak Tri-X 400 is especially valued for its ability to render rich blacks and nuanced highlights, which here would enhance the visual impact of the boy against the softer background.

Being a fully analog darkroom print adds another layer of depth to the image, providing a tangible connection to the photographic process and a sense of authenticity that digital prints often lack.

“Sampaguita Boy of Pampanga”: A Moment of Tradition and Youth

Capture the essence of cultural devotion with “Sampaguita Boy of Pampanga,” a silver gelatin print that eloquently portrays the intersection of youth, duty, and faith in the Philippines.

Depth of Character:

• Intimate Portrait: Look into the eyes of a boy who represents the hardworking spirit of Pampanga, offering a staple of religious observance.
• Symbolic Imagery: The sampaguita flowers in his grasp are more than mere objects; they are emblems of prayer and heritage.

Artistic Craftsmanship:

• Monochrome Elegance: Shot on Kodak Tri-X 400 film, the image is a masterclass in grayscale, with a range that captures every nuance of light and shadow.
• Darkroom Precision: As a darkroom print, each piece is individually crafted, ensuring that your print is as unique as the moment it captures.

Aesthetic Appeal:

• Timeless Decor: This print is ideal for those who seek artwork with soul, a story, and a connection to traditions that transcend boundaries.
• Conversation Piece: Positioned in your home or office, it invites viewers to reflect on the resilience and hope found in the younger generations.

Embrace this beautiful convergence of daily life and cultural tradition. “Sampaguita Boy of Pampanga” is not just a photo; it’s an invitation to ponder the simplicity and complexity of life through the lens of a young vendor.

Embody Tradition: Add this timeless print to your collection to honor the narratives that weave through the fabric of Filipino culture. Order now and let this analog photograph become a gateway to stories untold and traditions upheld.

“Timeless Craft: Handcrafted Silver Gelatin Prints”

Immerse yourself in the timeless artistry of silver gelatin prints with our exclusive collection, each piece meticulously handcrafted in the darkroom by the photographer. This isn’t your ordinary print—it’s a labor of love and skill, borne from the delicate and demanding process of traditional photographic development.

Darkroom Developed:

• Both the negative and the print are developed by the photographer’s hand, ensuring a level of personal craftsmanship that digital processes cannot replicate.
• The journey from film to print is handled with precision, utilizing an enlarger to meticulously transfer the image from film with the perfect contrast grade and exposure time.

Intricate Process:

• After exposure, each print undergoes a rigorous development cycle, including a fix and an extended wash of 45 minutes in continuously flowing water to eradicate any lingering chemistry.
• Post-development, the print is carefully dried over several days, naturally curling before being pressed flat in a specialized hot mount press, a step that guarantees its longevity and preservation.

Enduring Quality:

• Skillfully executed, a silver gelatin print is not simply an image; it’s an heirloom, designed to last centuries and endure as a piece of history.

Custom Selections:

• Available on 11 x 14 inch Ilford B&W MATT archival fiber photo paper for a classic matte finish.
• Offered in 11 x 14 inch Ilford B&W Semi Matt WARMTONE archival fiber photo paper, blending a subtle sheen with warm, profound blacks and velvety whites.
• Presented on 11 x 14 inch Ilford B&W GLOSSY WARMTONE archival fiber photo paper for those who prefer a sleek, lustrous finish to their art.

Edition and Authenticity:

• Open Edition ensures that while the print is not part of a limited series, its quality and uniqueness remain uncompromised.
• WARMTONE papers accentuate the richness of each print, offering deep, luscious blacks and lustrous, creamy whites that elevate the visual experience.
• Each print is personally signed and is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity, sealing the artistry and originality of your piece.

Purchase and Delivery:

• Listed price applies to the print alone, unframed and without matting. For those desiring a complete presentation, we offer bespoke matting and framing services—contact us to discuss your vision.
• We take pride in our global reach, offering complimentary worldwide shipping from our darkroom in Japan to your doorstep, typically dispatched via Japan Post EMS.

Embrace the distinguished character of a handcrafted silver gelatin print and let it infuse your space with a narrative depth only traditional photography can convey.

Secure your timeless window into photographic excellence today, and own a piece of artistic legacy.