© Fred JOURDA

The "Something" Lost in Color Photography

I believe most people are aware that photography exists in both color and monochrome.

They know of its existence, but what exactly is the difference?
How does an image become colored or black and white?

Further classification can lead to complex discussions about film sensitivity, enlargement techniques, paper properties, and, more recently, digital printing, which allows for easy prints without negatives. These can become quite technical.

If one wishes to know more, a simple internet search can yield a wealth of information even for amateurs. However, not knowing these details doesn't particularly impede daily life.

© Fred JOURDA

When you take exposed film or digital data to a photo shop, a seemingly photographic print emerges from a large machine in the back, leading many to naturally assume that printing is done by machine.
The history of color photography began in 1869 with Frenchman Charles Cros.
Compared to that era, color photography has become remarkably easy to produce. Yet, I am certain that something has been lost in the process.

I hope to discuss the technical intricacies at some point in this content, should the opportunity arise. For now, however, I want to talk about someone who has become captivated by that very "something" that is being lost.

PICTO: Pierre GASMANN

The photo lab "PICTO" in Paris, France, is a name familiar not only to French people but to professionals in the world of photography.

Established in 1950 by Pierre Gassmann, this lab has served legendary photographers of the era such as Henri Cartier-Bresson, Robert Capa, and Willy Ronis. Gassmann was also a master printer for Man Ray.

While I intend to delve deeper into Pierre Gassmann's story another time, this piece will introduce Fred Jourda, the current color print technician at the "PICTO" lab. Through him, a photographer and a color print technician, I hope to capture that elusive "something."

© Fred JOURDA

Fred JOURDA

At the age of 17, he took a one-monthアルバイト (part-time job) at "PICTO" to earn money for his vacation.

It was then that he received direct instruction in monochrome printing from PICTO's founder, Pierre Gassmann, marking the first step in his printing career.

Though still young at 43, Fred Jourda is a star in the industry, sought after by photographers worldwide, including Mario Testino, Jean-Baptiste Mondino, Raymond Depardon, and David Hamilton, for his technical expertise.

(Next time, we will publish an interview with him.)

© Fred JOURDA