Glossary

# 2H Pencil

Pencil lead ranges from 9B, the softest, to 9 H, the hardest. A 2H pencil has slightly hard lead.

# 25 A red filter

A “look-through” simple light red filter used for infrared photography.

#87 red filter

An opaque, “true” red filter used for infrared photography.

24 bits

A 24 bit image uses 24 bits of data for each pixel, with a possibility of 16.5 million colors.

A-2 nib

A square point nib or pen point, often used to create block style letters and various types of borders and designs. A-0 is the widest, A-6 the most narrow.

A-4 nib

A square point nib or pen point, often used to create block style letters and various types of borders and designs. A-0 is the widest, A-6 the most narrow.

A-5 nib

A square point nib or pen point, often used to create block style letters and various types of borders and designs. A-0 is the widest, A-6 the most narrow.

C-6 nib

A flat point nib or pen point, used to create Roman letters, italics and text letters, as well as various lines and scrolls, or script-type effects.

Acrylic

Lightweight, plastic glazing material used in place of glass in the framing package.

Acrylic paint

A synthetic painting medium that produces a finished look similar to oil paint. The colors are bright. Thinning and clean-up are done with water.

Acrylic/plexiglas

While light in weight, this material will scratch easily, unless a scratch-resistant type is used. It also carries a static charge, and should not be used when framing charcoals, pastels, or any powdery media.

Adhesive

A paste used to attach a "hinge" to the backer board. Wheat and rice starch paste is preferred as it can be moistened with water and removed without endangering the art.

Albumen

Mixture of table salt and egg white, used in the albumen process.

Albumen Alternative Photography Process

An alternative photography process where table salt was beaten into egg white and the mixture spread on drawing paper and allowed to dry. The treated paper was sensitized with silver nitrate, dried in the dark, and printing was by contact with a negative during a long exposure to daylight.

Alum rosin sizing

May be an ingredient in rag board, but if used, the board will become acidic and cause problems.

Ambrotype Alternative Photography Process

Alternative photography process that produced a distinctive, positive silver-white image on a dark glass plate.

American Institute for Conservation of Historic & Artistic Works

Organization that supports conservation professionals who preserve our cultural heritage.

Analysis

The stage in the designing process where limitations are considered and resolved, such as budget, conservation, and the client's wishes.

Anti-Reflective Glass

Anti-Reflective GlassA chemical coating is applied to the surface of clear glass to increase light transmission and reduce reflection. This glass may be used with thick or multiple mats.

Aperture

The opening that controls how much light passes through the lens of a camera.

Aperture priority

An automatic exposure mode that allows the photographer to set the aperture and the camera sets the shutter speed for a proper exposure.

Arches paper

A brand of watercolor paper produced at Arjomari Mills in France. Five centuries of paper making experience produce excellent art papers.

Arrowroot

A starch used in the salted paper process to improve the color of the print and to strengthen the image by preventing the silver salts from penetrating too deeply into the paper.

Art Pens

Consist of the pen holder and the nib, or point.

Artist Biography

The biographical facts about an artist that may include exhibitions and accomplishments.

Artist Statement

A written statement by an artist expressing their individual art philosophy. The statement may be general in nature, or reference a specific body of work.

ASTM-American Society for Testing and Materials

The ASM has issued various standards that apply to artist materials, including art paints and solvents. Products may carry an AP or CL label. The AP label applies to non-toxic materials, the CL label is a cautionary label, indicating particular health hazards based on label information.

Backer Board

A sturdy material used to support the artwork in the framing package. Acid-free 4-ply foam board is preferred for archival framing.

Balance

White balance is the process of calibrating your camera so that it can correctly interpret the colors under the type of light in which you are shooting the image.

Barnegat Light

Barnegat Lighthouse, affectionately know as “Old Barney’ to many generations of New Jersey shore visitors, sends a welcoming beacon to both commercial and pleasure craft in the Atlantic.

bast

The fiber or woody outer layer of plant stems such flax or hemp.

Bellows

An accordion shaped piece of the view camera that permits flexible positioning of the lens and film back.. It is light-tight, and is located between the lens board and the film back or holder.

Black and White film

Film made of light sensitive silver halide crystals spread through the gelatin of the emulsion layer which creates a black and white image.

Black Sable (Fitch)

Brushes made of black sable or fitch are very smooth and are used for blending the paint. This brush produces fine details with watercolors and is usually less expensive than sable.

Brant Point Light

Brant Point Lighthouse, nestled in the dunes, provides a welcoming light at the entrance to the harbor in Nantucket, MA.

Bristle

Short, stiff, coarse animal hair.

Bromoil Alternative Photography Process

An alternative photography printing technique. Gelatin is mixed with potassium dichromate. Oil-based inks applied to the surface are absorbed based on water content of the paper, producing varying shades of white, gray and black.

Brown Squirrel-Kazan

Brushes made from Brown Squirrel are generally available and are found in mid-quality watercolor brushes.

Built in flash

An automatic feature of a camera that meters available light and uses a flash to expose an image. This automatically regulates the light from the flash and synchronizes it with the shutter, so the flash occurs when the shutter is fully opened.

C-41 Process

A film developing process for color negative film. The chemicals used in the process have a very narrow temperature tolerance. Process should be used by those with experience and the necessary equipment.

CCD Image Sensor

Charge Coupled Device. The Image sensor that is used in digital cameras. It replaces the film used in conventional cameras.

CPU

Central Processing Unit--the brain of the computer workstation.

Cadmium

Metallic element sometimes found in paint pigments. Usage as a paint pigment is governed by ASTM guidelines.

Calotype Alternative Photography Process

An alternative photographic process where paper is impregnated with silver iodide, and sensitized with a water-based solution containing silver nitrate, acetic acid and gallic acid. The paper is exposed in the camera and developed as a negative with the same solution.

Camel Hair

When used in brushes, the hair does not come from camels! Camel hair brushes are usually made from goat, ox, pony, squirrel, or a blend of these.

Camera

Device used to take pictures. It typically includes a lens for focusing light, a shutter to control the light admitted, and a film holder to hold the film flat, all enclosed in a box that is light-tight.

Camera body

The casing that holds the various camera components.

Cape Henlopen State Park

Established in 1964 as a state park, Cape Henlopen had been declared a public land area by William Penn in 1682. In 1942, during the Second World War, several forts were built in the area. Cape Henlopen lighthouse had been built in 1765, and collapsed during a winter storm in 1926. Today the park encompasses nearly 3800 acres and offers access to the ocean for fishing and water sports. Bird-watching is popular, wildlife is plentiful, and well-maintained trails are popular with hikers. An excellent nature center in the northern section of the park is a favorite spot for families.

Cape May-Lewes Ferry

The Cape May-Lewes Ferry provides a passenger and vehicle connection between Cape May, New Jersey and Lewes, Delaware. The 70 minute cruise saves driving time for motorists, and provides a refreshing mini-cruise for foot passengers. Ferry service varies based on the day of the week and season of the year. Tickets are available for foot passengers, driver and vehicle, additional vehicle passengers, motorcycles and vehicles of various sizes. Free parking and pleasant terminal facilities are available at both locations.

Cape May Light

The lighthouse is located near Cape May, New Jersey, near the entrance to Delaware Bay. The light was established in 1823, and the present tower was built in 1859. The light flashes white every 15 seconds. The light house is an active aid to navigation. Cape May light is a popular visitor spot in this popular South Jersey resort. Bird watching is popular in the surrounding area, and the lighthouse has a museum and gift shop. The Cape May light is managed by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts.

Cellulose

Cellulose fibers are plant cells. Based on the type of plant (hemp, flax, cotton, linen) the cells are of different sizes.

Changing bag

A large black fabric bag used by photographers to insert or remove film from a camera. The camera is placed in the bag and the photographer inserts his arms into elastic-line inserts. Light cannot enter the bag, and the film can safely be loaded or removed from the camera. The photographer must be able to complete the process based on his familiarity of feeling the camera parts and the film.

Chemical Abstracts Service Registry

Find information about chemicals in an extensive on-line database at www.chemfinder.com.

Chemical buffers

Added during the paper-making process to neutralize the acid present in cellulose from wood pulp, and to increase the archival quality of the paper.

Chrome

Metallic element sometimes found in paint pigments. Usage as a paint pigment is governed by ASTM guidelines.

Clarification

The final step in designing the framing package. The work is critiqued for style and workmanship, as well as obtaining the customer's final approval.

Clear Glass

Type of glass frequently used to cover artwork in the framing package. Other than covering the art, it offers no additional protection.

Cobalt

Metallic element sometimes found in paint pigments. Usage as a paint pigment is governed by ASTM guidelines.

Cold Press

Cold Press paper has a medium rough texture. The wet paper sheet is placed between cold metal rollers during the finishing process.

Collotype Alternative Photography Process

An alternative photographic process where ink prints are produced from a photographic image made of gelatin. Collotype prints were first made in 1855 and during the next 20 years many variations of the collotype process were developed.

Color

Color, either in a work of art or the framing package for the art, will convey the mood the artist had in mind. Blue tones are cool, red tones are warm. The color used in the framing package should compliment the artwork.

Color Balance

Color film is balanced to respond to different types of light sources. in the print-making process, color balance refers to accurately reproducing the colors in the print.

Color Negative Film

Produces an image opposite in density and colors from the original scene. becomes a positive color print when printed on paper. Processed with C-41 chemistry.

Color of Light

Color film is measured in the Kelvin scale and goes from 5500K at daylight to about 1900K, or the light of a candle. (See Kelvin scale for more information.)

Color Temperature

A means of expressing light as a numerical value, also know as degrees Kelvin. Different types of lights shine at different temperatures, and each color has a unique color characteristic. (See Kelvin scale for more information.)

Color Temperature Meter

A device used to estimate the the color temperature of a light source. A light meter to measure the color temperature of light rather than its intensity.

Color Transparencies

A transparency or slide is a positive color image and is processed with E-6 chemistry.

Compass set

A set of one or more types of compasses used as drawing tools. May include a 6” bow compass and a bar compass with a 17” or larger diameter rod.

Composition

Arranging the elements of your subject--shape, line, tone and color--in a pleasant and orderly way. Communicating your visual expression. The visual harmony and balance in your image.

Conservators

Highly trained Individuals who restore, repair and conserve works of art. Conservators may work as an independent business, or in an art gallery or museum.

Convergence of vertical lines

Describes when parallel lines, such as those in a building, appear to converge, or come together in a photographic image. A view camera can control perspective. You can keep horizontal and vertical lines straight so they don't converge.

Cotton

A type of fiber that provides cellulose used in the production of paper.

Creativity

A stage in the framing process where the framer uses both the definition of the piece as well as his imagination to design a framing package that compliments the art as well as the environment where it will be placed.

Cyanotype Alternative Photography Process

Also known as the ferro-prussiate process, invented by British chemist Sir John Herschel in 1842, and based on the light sensitivity of various iron salts.

DX Coding

Film cassettes have either a barcode or a checkered-type of coding that tells an automated camera the type and speed of film, and the number of exposures.

Louis Jacques Mandé Daguerre

Invented the Daguerreotype process and published his work in September of 1839.

Daguerrotype Alternative Photography Process

An alternative photography process where silver on the plate was sensitized by the fumes of iodine. The plate was exposed in the camera and the image was developed by mercury fumes, and then fixed in sodium hyposulfite. This is a very dangerous process and should not be attempted!

Definition

In art, the concept or definition determines the composition, colors, and key elements. The same principles are followed with the framing package for the art.

Delaware Breakwater Light

Located in Lewes Harbor in the Delaware Bay, the light is not operational. The tower is 40 feet high. It may be seen from the Cape May-Lewes ferry, and from Cape Henlopen State Park. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is managed by the Delaware River and Bay Lighthouse Foundation.

Delaware River and Bay Lighthouse Foundation

This Foundation maintains the Harbor of Refuge Light and the Delaware Breakwater (East End) Light. Members are actively involved in preservation efforts at both lights, and offer tours of the lights during the summer, as well as extensive educational programs for school students and the general public.

Depth of Field

When viewing an image, the area that appears in sharp focus.

Diaphragm

The mechanism in the camera body that controls the intensity, or brightness of light that passes through the lens.

Diffusion

The scattering of light in many directions. Gives a very even light.

Digital

Or digitizing: converting light into numbers or digits.

Digital back

A light-tight container attached to a view camera that contains a digital sensor or CCD to capture the image.

Digital Camera

A camera that uses a CCD or digital sensor instead of film to capture the image.

Direction of Light

Relationship of the light source to the subject being photographed. The photographer observes the light source and shadows when composing the scene to photograph.

Drawing Tools

Various drawing or drafting tools that are used by an artist to achieve a certain look in the painting. Tools may include triangles, compasses, T-squares, French curves, mechanical pencils and erasers.

Dust Cover

A heavy paper used to cover the back of the picture frame. It seals the framing package and contributes to the preservation of the art. Conservation grade paper should be used for archival framing.

E-6 Process

Process used to develop color transparencies or slides. Requires expensive chemicals, very accurate temperature controls, and the developed film needs to be cut into individual slides and mounted.

Electromagnetic spectrum

The range of radiant energy that can be seen by the human eye. Wavelengths of 400-700 nanometers produce a sensation of seeing violet, blue, green, yellow and red.

Eraser

Used to remove unwanted lines. Artists may use an eraser to remove sketch lines in a painting.

Exposure

The amount of light that reaches light-sensitive material, such as film. Exposure is based on the intensity of the light and the amount of time the light strikes the film.

External Surface-Sizing

Applied to the external surface of paper after the sheet is formed. Sizing makes the sheet stiff and less absorbent.

f-stop

The aperture setting of a lens. These settings regulate light in set numbered amounts.

Fabriano Artistico

A brand of watercolor papers and art supplies.

Fan Brushes

A fan brush contains hair spread out like a fan. Natural hair brushes are best for smoothing and blending watercolor paints.

Ferric ammonium citrate

CAS #1185-57-5. Green crystal or powder and acts as a sensitizer. It is not highly toxic, but needs to be treated with care in both use and storage.

Ferro-prussiate process

See Cyanotype process.

Fiber

Filaments from natural sources such as cotton, linen, hemp, and flax, or synthetic filaments such as nylon or polyesters that are used in the production of paper.

Fiber based

Photo paper that is made of fiber and does not have resin coating. Fiber based paper will take hand coloring and spotting better than resin paper.

Filbert Brushes

These are thick and oval-shaped brushes with medium to long hairs suitable for blending watercolor paints and washes.

Film

Light-sensative material used in a camera to record a photographic image.

Film Advance

A device in the camera that winds a new section of film into place for the next image.

Film emulsion

Suspends light-sensative crystals in a gelatin base. The outer layer of the film is a scratch-resistant coating. Beneath the emulsion layer, adhesive is used to bind the emulsion layer to a cellulose-acetate base.

Film Holder

A light-tight container used with a view camera to hold the film sheet.

Film Plane

The point or surface where a focused lens produces a sharp image.

Film Speed

Expresses the light sensitivity of the film. The film rating increases as the sensitivity increases. The United States and Great Britain use ISO/ASA. Europe uses DIN.

Fine Day at Sea Girt

This graceful Victorian light is located in Sea Girt, New Jersey. The last light to be built on the Atlantic Coast, Sea Girt reflects the quiet charm of seaside New Jersey in the Victorian era. The stately brick structure stands at the northern end of this popular beach resort. This painting by Lee M. Buchanan is part of our Heritage Series.

Finish (of paper)

The surface characteristics of a sheet of paper.

Fisheye Lens

A very wide angle lens. May produce distortion in the image as straight lines appear to curve around the center of the image.

Flash Control

The means of controlling the length of time of the flash by metering the light, either manually or electronically by synchronizing the flash and the opening and closing of the shutter.

Flash Meter

A type of meter that measures the brightness of flash lighting to set the correct exposure for a given setting.

Flat matte

Photo paper with a flat finish as opposed to glossy paper.

Flax

A type of fiber that provides cellulose used in the production of paper.

Float

May refer to float glass--see Natural framing glass. Also refers to space provided in the depth of the frame so art will float and not touch the glazing material.

Focal Length

The distance between the lens and the focal plane in the camera, typically expressed in millimeters.

Focal Plane

The point or surface where a focused lens produces a sharp image.

Focal Plane Shutter

A shutter mechanism in the camera that exposes the film by moving an opening in front of the film plane.

Focus Control

Bring an image into sharp focus by adjusting the distance between the lens and the image.

Focus and Depth of Field

Gives you a sharp focused image when set correctly.

Focusing Cloth

A dark colored cloth used to focus a view camera. The cloth is placed over the back of the camera and the photographer's head to keep out light and provide the best view of the image on the ground glass.

Frame

The edge of an image, or a single image.

Frame Package

The frame package includes all materials needed to support and display the art, including the frame, backer board, mat(s) spacers, fillets, glazing and dust cover.

French Curves

A type of drawing or drafting tool used by some artists to achieve a straight, evenly curved line.

Fresnel Lens

The Fresnel lens was invented by Augustin-Jean Fresnel, a French physicist. It was originally meant for use in lighthouses, as the design and construction of the lens allowed more light to pass through and be seen at a greater distance than what was previously possible. The Fresnel lens is often referred to by its "order" There were six orders of lens based on the focal length of the lens, with a First Order lens being the largest, and a Sixth order lens the smallest.

Fully Automatic Mode

Camera operation where all functions are pre-set and determined for you, including automatic focus and exposure.

Gelatin/Starch additive

Also called sizing. Added as part of the paper-making process to stiffen the paper sheet.

Giclée

An image created, scanned, or imported as a digital file into the computer, and printed on a high-end ink jet printer. The inks used produce extremely true colors without a dot pattern. The use of archival inks and paper assure a long-lasting print. Giclée prints have become an accepted medium for art prints and reproductions.

Glass plate

The supporting medium prior to widespread use of film.

Glazing

The clear, protective cover over the art in the framing package. Various types of glass, as well as acrylic plexiglas are commonly used.

Glossy surface

Paper with a high sheen or shiny surface.

Gluten

Substance in adhesive that makes the paste tough and hard to remove. Vegetable starches used to make paste have a low gluten content.

Goat Hair

A soft and absorbent hair used in brushes, typically in blends referred to as “camel hair”.

Good Ole Times at Cape Hatteras

Cape Hatterus Light is on the Outer Banks in North Carolina. This painting by Lee M. Buchanan, part of our Heritage Series, is the third light built at the site. The first was erected in 1803, the second in 1870, and the third in 1935. In 1873 the light received its familiar black and white spirals—a prominent day mark to mariners at sea. Good Old Times at Cape Hatteras presents the light around 1950, before the beach began to show signs of serious erosion.

Graded Contrast

Refers to photo paper identified with a specific grade of contrast, numbered from one to six. Multi-grade or poly contrast paper may be used for various contrast levels, based on the filter used in the enlarger.

Grain

The size of the silver halide crystals in Black and White film, and the size of the dye couplers in color film. The larger the crystals, the faster the film.

Grams per square meter

A means to state the weight of paper. Grams per square meter, a metric measurement, is used to state the paper weight regardless of the size of the paper sheet.

Great Point Light

Great Point Light is one of three lighthouses on Nantucket Island. The light is an active aid to navigation. The tower is 60 feet high and the light flashes white every five seconds.

Grey Squirrel-Talahoutky

Native to Russia and usually in short supply. The hair is highly desirable for lettering brushes or for use in quills.

Ground Glass

The viewing glass in a view camera.

Gum Arabic

CAS #9000-01-5 The gummy sap from the acacia tree. It is soluble in water and is one of the main ingredients in the gum bichromate process. Avoid excessive handling.

Gum Bichromate Alternative Photography Process

An alternative photography printing technique that gives a positive print by using a coating of pigmented, light-sensitive gum arabic, which allows manipulation by the photographer during the developing stage. The first gum prints were exhibited in 1858 by John Pouney, but they technique was not thoroughly perfected until the 1890's.

Harbor of Refuge Light

Located in Lewes Harbor at the Delaware Bay. It is an active aid to navigation and the light flashes white every 5 seconds. The tower is 76 feet high. The light is managed by the Delaware River and Bay Lighthouse Foundation, Inc. Ownership of the light was transferred to Foundation in 2004 under the National Historic Lighthouse Preservation Act of 2000.

Harbor View

A summer sunset casts its evening glow on this charming cottage nestled in the dunes near Lewes, Delaware. The Harbor of Refuge Light, a beacon to Delaware Bay mariners, stands ready to send out its nightly warning. This painting by Lee M. Buchanan is part of the Heritage Series.

Hemp

A type of fiber that provides cellulose used in the production of paper.

The Heritage Series

A series of watercolor paintings by artist Lee M. Buchanan depicting buildings, ships and places as they would have appeared in a previous time. Most of the subjects no longer exist.

Heritage Visual Arts, Inc.

Publisher of prints of work by artist Lee M. Buchanan.

Hilary Page's Guide to Watercolor Paints

An excellent reference book detailing the characteristics and properties of watercolor paints.

Hinge

Japanese tissue is typically made from fibers from the mulberry, gampi or mitsumata trees. These fibers give the paper strength, and are used to construct a hinge, or corner, to safely mount artwork to the backer board.

Hog Bristle

A natural bristle brush that holds its point well, has a stiff “feel” and is very durable.

Hot Press

Hot press paper is very smooth. The formed paper sheet is run through hot metal rollers that eliminate any remaining texture in the sheet. A flat, hard surface is the result.

Hot Shoe

A bracket mounted on the camera to hold a flash. An electrical connection is used to synchronize the flash with the camera shutter.

http://aic.stanford.edu

Web site of the American Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works.

Geoff Hunt

A marine artist who paints 18th-19th century ships. He carefully researches his paintings and is a leading authority on naval history and ship architecture of the period. Hunt is president of the Royal Society of Marine Artists.

ISO/ASA rating

Film speed ratings. ISO/ASA in USA and Great Britain; DIN in Europe.

Incidence Light Meter

An exposure meter that measures the amount of light falling on the image subject or object.

Illuminance Light

The strength of the light that falls on a given surface area.

Infrared Film

Film that is sensitized to record infrared light, or invisible rays in the infrared light spectrum, which some people are able to perceive as heat. Images in Infrared photos have a lacy appearance.

Infrared Landscape Photography

Landscape photography using infrared film. The infrared film “sees” heat. Prints made from infrared images have a lacey, ethereal appearance.

Inorganic

Composed of matter other than that from animal or vegetable sources.

Intensity

The quantity of light on an area.

Interchangeable Lens

A lens for a camera that can be removed and replaced with a different lens to meet the purpose of the photographer.

Internal Sizing

Added to the paper pulp mixture before the paper sheet is formed to stiffen the sheet and increase the absorbency.

Irregular Curves

A type of various drawing or drafting tools that are used by an artist to achieve a straight, evenly curved line. Tools may include triangles, compasses, T-squares, French curves, mechanical pencils and erasers.

Japanese Paper

See Japanese tissue.

Japanese Tissue

A fine tissue paper used to attach art work to the backer board. The strip is used to create a corner attached to the backer board, and the art is slipped into the corner.

Jute

A type of fiber that provides cellulose used in the production of paper.

Kelvin Scale

A means of expressing light as a numerical value, also know as degrees Kelvin. Different types of lights shine at different temperatures, and each color has a unique color characteristic. 6000K = strobe. 5500K=daylight, 4000K=Flash, 3200K=flood lamp, 2800K=household light, 1900K=candle.

Kodak D-76

A general-purpose developer used to process (develop) black and white film.

Kodak professional B/W duplicating film SO-339

This film replaced Kodak 4168 film.

Kolinsky Sable

Hairs from Siberian sable used for brushes. Sable hair is chosen during the winter months to obtain long, dense hair that is best for holding paint in the brush.

LCD screen/viewfinder

Liquid Crystal Display screen used with the viewfinder on a digital camera.

LCD Status Screen

A small screen, usually on top of a digital camera, that displays current camera settings such as resolution, ISO, flash mode, shutter speed, battery level, etc.

Large Format

A camera with film sizes 4"x5" or larger, including 4"x5", 5"x7", 8'x10", 11"x14", 16"x20".

Leaf Spring Shutter

A shutter made up of several metal leaves that overlap and open to admit light.

Lens

Curved optical glass that focuses the image of the subject.

Lens Filters

Attached to the end of the lens to achieve certain filter effects.

Lens Plane

The lens plane involves using the Scheimfpflug Principle and is a geometric rule describing the orientation of the plane of focus of an optical system (like a view camera) where the lens plane is not parallel to the image plane. (See Scheimpflug Principle for more information.)

Lewes, Delaware

Lewes, Delaware was founded in 1631 and is located where the Atlantic Ocean and the Delaware Bay meet at Cape Henlopen. The town has a rich historic heritage. The Historic District is surrounded by numerous museums, fine shops, Bed & Breakfasts, and ocean beaches are close by. The harbor is home to numerous fishing and pleasure craft.

Light

One of the Visual Elements that may include light coming from various directions, such as front, side, back, direct light, directional-diffused light, diffused-revealing light, silhouette light, and glowing light.

Light-fastness

Both paper and paint pigments are affected by light. Best results are achieved if paper or a painting on paper are stored in an enclosed environment, such as a frame, and away from direct light. Refers to the archival quality of the paint and/or paper.

Light measuring cell

The part of an incident light meter that is sensitive to light and measures illuminanc

Lighthouse Digest Doomsday List

Lighthouse Digest Magazine maintains a list of endangered lighthouses that includes all lights that have seriously deteriorated and may soon be lost forever. Over 50 lights are currently on the list.

Lighthouse Societies

Lighthouse societies exist on the national, regional and local levels. Many are involved with lighthouse preservation, and provide education and lighthouse-related activities for members and the general public.

Line

One of the visual elements including lines that are curved, straight, broken, horizontal, vertical or diagonal. Line gives form and boundaries, both within a work of art and in the framing package. A v-grove or mat bevel will add line to the framing package.

Linen

A type of fiber that provides cellulose used in the production of paper.

Long or Telephoto Lens

Creates an image that is narrower and magnified at a distance than what the eye can typically see.

Loupe

A hand-held magnifying lens, used to check focus. A loupe is used to look at film in detail.

Low-Iron Glass

Any picture framing glass with a low-iron content. iron in glass gives a green tint, which will distort the colors in the art.

Luminance

The light that is reflected, or produced, by a given subject, in a specific direction.

MSDS

Material Safety Data Sheet A description of a specific product hat contains a chemical or combination of chemicals. Includes health warnings, emergency treatment, and all pertinent information that an individual using the product needs to know to protect his health and safety.

Macro Lens

Lens used for taking close-up pictures.cal craftsmen and the well-known government contractor Winslow Lewis in 1873. The light was automated in 1926 and de-activated in 1929. It passed through a series of owners, and was struck by lightening and burned in May of 2002.

Manor House in Summer

A painting by lee M. Buchanan of the home that served as General George Washington's headquarters in Valley Forge during the Revolutionary War. This piece is part of our Heritage Series.

Manual Mode

On a camera, manual mode allows you to set both shutter and aperture speed, giving you full control of the camera.

Masking Fluid

A liquid that allows the artist to mask or block paint from getting to the paper in one area of the painting while he works on another section.

Mat Burn

A stain along the edge of the mat window--a sign that acid in the mat has reacted with air or other pollutants, causing damage to the mat and possibly to the art.

Mechanical Drawing Pencils

Pencils made in calibrated 1 w degrees of softness to hardness.

Medium

The medium is used to suspend the pigment within the paint, allowing the paint to be easily applied to the paper.

Medium Format

A camera using a film size from 2-1/4" x 2-1/4" to about 2-1/4" x 2-3/4".

Memory Card

A reusable, removable memory/storage device used in digital cameras.

Mercury

CAS # 7439-97-6 One of six elements that are liquid at or near room temperature. Heating mercury is extremely dangerous.

Meter

A device used to measure light or exposure, or color.

Metering Controls

The controls to set a light meter for a correct exposure.

Mirror

Mirrors are used to view an image through the lens to the view finder.

Mispillion Light

Mispillion Light was located at the mouth of the Mispillion River on the Delaware Bay near Milford, Delaware. The light was built by local craftsmen.

Mode Selector Control

The mode selector control gives the photographer options for auto mode or manual mode.

Monitors

The display hardware for the computer workstation. Choose a monitor based on size, brightness, sharpness, contrast and your main purpose: images for the web and/or for printing.

Monopod

A single pole device used to mount a camera to prevent motion and provide stability.

Museum Board

Also referred to as conservation board. Rag board that has had the lignin removed during manufacturing to remove the acidic content and meet archival and conservation standards.

Museum-Grade Glass

Combines anti-reflective and UV filtering properties to the glass. It offers the best combination of light and UV protection, but preserves the clarity of the art to the viewer.

Nanometers

A range of the electromagnetic spectrum seen by the human eye--typically a range of 400-700 nanometers.

National Bureau of Standards

Set up paint standard in 1942 known as Commercial Standard 98-42. The standard was later revised to #98-62. These standards led to more specific standards by the American Society for Testing and Materials.(ASTM)

National Park Service

Yellowstone National Park was established by an Act of Congress in 1872, and placed under the control of the Secretary of the Interior. Additional national parks were added, and while national parks were part of the Department of the Interior, other national places and monuments were controlled by other agencies. In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson signed the act that created the National Park Service as a federal bureau in the Department of the Interior. An Executive Order in 1933 transferred numerous monuments and military sites into the National Park Service. The service includes 390 areas, including National Parks, National Seashores, and various monuments and other historic sites.

National Register of Historic Places

The National Register of Historic Places includes a total of over 80,000 listings that include all historic areas in the National Park System, over 2,400 National Historic Landmarks, and properties across the country that have been nominated because of their significance to a particular area. Many of the nation's lighthouses are listed in the National Register, which is administered by the National Park Service.

National Seashore

National Seashore areas are administered by the National Park Service.

Nantucket

The island of Nantucket is in the Atlantic, off the shores of Massachusetts. Reached by air or ferry, the island has a rich maritime history. The name Nantucket comes from the Wampanoag Indians, meaning "faraway land". Brant Point Lighthouse is the second-oldest light in America, constructed in 1746. The "old" and the "new" Brant Point Lights have a unique history, Two other lights are located on Nantucket: Great Point Light and Sankaty Head Light.

Nantucket Treasure

There may have been as many as ten different light towers marking Brant Point, near the entrance to Nantucket’s main harbor. This tower and residence date to 1856. The Light was established in 1746 and still stands today.Painting by Lee M. Buchanan.

Natural

Occurring in nature. Animal hair used in brushes is a by-product of the food and fur industries. Natural hairs offer superior brush performance. Shorter hair is readily available and less expensive. It may be blended with synthetic filaments for product consistency.

Natural Framing Glass

Also called float or sheet glass. Thinner than window glass, it is safe to use with charcoals, pastels and powdery media. It is somewhat scratch-resistant, heavier than acrylic, but breakable. It is available with UV, non-glare, anti-reflective and low-iron options.

Nauset Light

Also know as Nauset Beach Lighthouse--see listing below.

Nauset Beach Lighthouse

Nauset Beach Lighthouse, along with the Keeper’s House and shed, sits high above the Atlantic Ocean at Nauset Beach on Cape Cod in Massachusetts. The tower is 48 feet hight and the light alternated red and white every five seconds. It is a private aid to navigation and is an attraction at the Cape Cod National Seashore.

Navesink Twin Lights

The lights are located near Highlands, new Jersey at the approach to the new York Harbor. The towers are 73 feet high and were built in 1862, The North Tower light is a private aid to navigation. The South Tower is not operational, and is used as a museum.

Negatives

May refer to the developed film strip where each image is a negative. A negative image is the reversal of a positive image, where dark appears as light tones and light appears as dark tones.

neri

The main source of neri come from the root of the Japanese Tororo-aoi plant. The roots are pounded, soaked in water, and the bark is removed. The resulting viscous substance is used in the papermaking process.

Neutralize the acid

By adding chemical buffers during the paper making process, the amount of acid present in cellulose fibers from wood pulp is reduced. High acid content will destroy paper over time.

Nib Holders

The body of an art pen which allows the nib, or point to be changed to create different types of pen strokes.

Non-Glare Glass

Clear glass that has been etched with acid to create fine lines in the glass that cause light to be diffused off of the glass. Non-glare glass may cause a distortion of the art if thick or multiple mats are part of the framing package.

Nor'easter

A Nor'easter storm usually occurs in the winter months along the Atlantic Coast. The two main weather components are a Gulf Stream low-pressure system with counter-clockwise winds, and an Arctic high-pressure system with clockwise winds. When conditions are right, a Nor'easter storm can form and much of the Mid-Atlantic and New England states can experience high winds, driving rain or snow, and possible flooding or freezing conditions, depending on the temperatures.

Nor'easter A-Comin'

In this painting, artist Lee M. Buchanan presents his vision of the Sankaty Head Light in Nantucket, Massachusetts, circa 1850. As the sun sets, a storm heads inland, and a small sailboat head for safe harbor. This painting is part of our Heritage Series.

Normal Focal Length Lens

A lens that will see an object in focus at a distance similar to what the eye sees. This lens is what your eye sees. About a 50 mm lens.

Nylon Filament

A synthetic filament used in various art brushes.

Oil paint

Thick, oil based medium that is slow to dry and requires solvents for thinning the paint and for cleaning the brushes.

Old Brant Point Light

The light was built in 1856. It is currently part of a Coast Guard Station and is not operational.

Optical Viewfinder

The optical viewfinder is a lens on a digital camera that allows you to see an image thru the glass view finder, rather than a digital image on a LED screen.

Ox Hair

From the ears of oxen or cattle. Typically found I brushes that are used for washes and in flat-shaped brushes.

Paper weight

Basis weight of paper. When expressed in pounds, as 140 lb. paper, it refers to the weight of 500 sheets of paper of a specific size. Many art papers are labeled with paper weight in pounds, and also in grams per square meter, a more accurate way to state paper weight.

Parallax error

The error that occurs when the lens or viewfinder used to see the scene is different from the lens that exposes the film.

Pentaprism

Five-sided prism in a Single Reflex camera. Light from the camera lens passes through the pentaprism which turns the inverted image around so it appears normal to the eye.

Peripherals

Accessories or other devices used with a computer to provide an additional service or function. May include external hard drives, printers,etc.

Photographer's Formulary

An excellent source for lab supplies, photochemistry and a wealth of information of all things photographic. on the web at www.photoformulary.com

Photography

Use of film or a digital device to capture an images. Prints may be made from photo negatives, from photo positive transparencies, or digital images and may be printed on photo paper, fine art papers and fine art canvas.

Photojournalist

An individual who uses the images taken with a camera to tell a story.

Photorealism

A genre of paintings based on making a painting of a photograph, and applies to a painting from the photorealism movement from the 1960’s to 1070’s.These artists needed to have the ability to make the work look photographic.

Picture Frame Restoration

The task of restoring a frame to its original condition. If archival methods were not initially used, the restorer may be limited to restoring the appearance of the frame by cleaning, repairing and touching up the frame's surface.

Pigments

Color substances in the ink or paint that either absorb or reflect light. Pigments are what give paint its color and is suspended in a paint medium.

Platinum/Palladium Alternative Photography Process

Invented and patented by Richard WIllis in 1873. An alternative process, it is a positive printing technique. Palladium prints have a brown or sepia hue. Platinum prints have a neutral black to a warm sepia hue

Plein Air

Artists who paint outside, regardless of the art form (watercolor, oil, acrylic, etc.) are referred to as Plein Air painters. Paintings done outside are completed in a relatively short time, as the artist works to capture the scene before the light change is significant.

Polaroid back

A light-tight box attached to a view camera to take an image on a single piece of Polaroid film.

Polyester

Strips of this material may be used to attach art work to the backer board. The strip is used to create a corner attached to the backer board, and the art is slipped into the corner.

Polyester filament

A synthetic filament used in making art brushes.

Polyvinyl Acetate Glue

Used to apply the dust cover to the frame in archival framing.

Pony Hair

A soft but strong hair frequently found in inexpensive watercolor brushes. It does not readily return to a point after a brush stroke.

Portfolio

May refer to a series of paintings or artwork that relates to a specific theme or subject.

Potassium dichromate

CAS #7778-50-9 An orange crystal; the main sensitizer in the gum bichromate process. Very highly toxic and corrosive.

Potassium ferricyanide

CAS # 13746-66-2 An odorless, orange-red crystal; used in many alternative photography processes. Poisonous in high concentrations, and will react with acids. Use caution when handling.

Potassium oxalate

CAS # 583-52-8 Transparent and odorless; toxic and corrosive.

Principle of Reversibility

Guiding principle used in archival framing. All materials used to attach the art to the framing materials must be able to be reversed and removed at any future time without harming the artwork.

Print frame

Device used to hold the glass plate in a view camera or in various alternative photography processes.Resin Coated—photo paper that has a plastic, or resin coating on the paper base.

Prisms

A lens that redirects light.

Processor Speed

The speed that a computer can process data. The faster the speed, the quicker the information will be processed and available.

Production

The step in the framing design process where the plans are executed and the design takes shape.

Professional Film

A professional film notation on a box of film may indicate that the film has specific characteristics required in professional photography. Color film meets professional requirements for color balance. A professional tends to but, use and develop large quantities of film. The film is usually refrigerated once the retailer receives the product.

Proportion

The relationship between elements. The elements in the framing package need to present a pleasing proportion to the viewer.

Protractors

A type of various drawing or drafting tools that are used by an artist to achieve a circular look in the painting. Other tools may include triangles, compasses, T-squares, French curves, mechanical pencils and erasers.

RAM

Random Access memory.

Rag Board

Used to describe a type of mat board. The term originally referred to cotton rags, although today rag board is typically made from new cotton fibers and is always acid-free.

Rake Brushes

Used to add fine details or grain to a watercolor painting.

Range Finder

A device on some cameras that measures the distance from the subject to the camera and shows when the image is in focus.

Range Finder Camera

A camera equipped with a range-finder.

Red Sable

Brush hair taken from members of the weasel family with red hair.The hair is highly desirable, and considered professional grade as it will last a long time with proper care.

Reflected Light Meter

Any meter that is capable of measuring light reflected from the subject.

Resin coated

Photo print paper that requires less time during the final wash and rinse of the prints.

Round Brushes

Typically a full-bellied (fat) or detail (fine) brush. The full round brush is used for long brush strokes, and the fine brush for short strokes that provide detail in a painting.

Rough press

This paper has the most texture since the sheet is allowed to air dry without being pressed or having the texture removed. Rough press paper allows watercolor pigments to “wash” into the texture of the paper.

Salted Paper Alternative Photography Process

An alternative photography process, it was the first silver-based, negative to positive paper printing method used in photography. Although silver chloride was preferred, silver iodide, silver bromide and silver oxalate were also used.

Sankaty Head Light

Located in the southeastern area of Nantucket Island, the tower is 70 feet tall and the light flashes white every 7.5 seconds. It was built in 1850 and is an active aid to navigation. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, as well as the Lighthouse Digest Doomsday List of endangered lighthouses.

Scheimpflug Principle

The Scheimpflug Principle is a geometric rule that describes the orientation of the plane of focus of an optical system, such as a camera, when the lens plane is not parallel to the image plane. The principle is usually applied to various movements typical of a view camera. it is named after Theodor Scheimpflug, an Austrian Army captain, who used it to develop a systematic method and apparatus for correcting perspective distortions in aerial photographs.

Schmincke-Horadam

A brand of watercolor paints manufactured since 1881. Well-know for quality, and for taking steps to reduce hazardous chemicals in their paint pigments.

Sea Girt Light

The Sea Girt Lighthouse is a gracious Victorian structure in the New Jersey coastal resort town of Sea Girt, New Jersey.The light was built in 1896 and is currently a private aid to navigation and a museum. The tower and the keeper's house are an integrated structure.

Sensitized

A film or plate that is made sensitive to light of a particular wavelength.

Sensitizing solution

A chemical solution applied to a photographic paper to bond the two together prior to exposing the paper and negative to sunlight.

Shape

Shape in an art work adds interest and directs the viewer's eye within the art. Shapes and patterns within the frame will also direct the eye.

Sheet Glass

Refers to float glass. See Natural framing glass.

Short or Wide Angle Lens

Any lens that is able to take in a wider frame of view than the normal lens.

Shutter

Part of the camera used to prevent light from striking the film. The photographer is able to control the amount of light entering the camera by using the shutter release.

Shutter Priority

A means of exposure control where the photographer selects the shutter speed, and the camera choses an aperture for the correct exposure.

Shutter Speed

The time the shutter remains open, admitting light. Measure in seconds, or fractions of a second, in order to produce a correct exposure.

Silver bromide

CAS # 7785-23-1 A pale yellow solid that is photo-sensitive.

Silver chloride

CAS # 7783-90-6 A white solid used to make photographic paper.

Silver Gelatin Print

A black and white photograph that used an emulsion of light-sensitive silver salts in gelatin to form an emulsion.

Silver Gelatin Process

Term used to describe the black and white photographic printing process used today. R.L. Maddox introduced the process in 1871, followed by a greatly improved process developed by Charles Harper Bennet in 1878.

Silver Halide Crystals

The creation of an image on a piece of film occurs as a result of the reaction betwen light and silver halide crystals that are spread through the gelatin in the emulsion layer of the film.

Silver iodide

CAS # 7783-96-2 Yellow crystalline solid.

Silver oxalate

CAS # 533-51-7Sodium hyposulfite See sodium thiosulfate.

Single Array System

A digital camera system that captures the image with a single image sensor. No prisms are involved.

Single-Lens Reflex

A camera type where one lens is used for viewing and for taking the image.

Sodium hyposulfate

See Sodium thiosulfate.

Sodium thiosulfate

CAS # 7772-98-7 A colorless and odorless crystal. Aging and heat can cause it to decompose and form toxic sulfur dioxide gas.

Soft Focus Lens

Also called a portrait lens. Produces an image that will soften the details of the subject, such as reducing skin wrinkles.

Space

Space is used by the artist to highlight an element in the work of art. Space in the framing package is achieved through the width of the frame, the number or depth of the mats, and the use of fillets, spaces and the choice of glazing.

Space and Perspective

One of the Visual Elements that includes shallow space, deep space, positive space, negative space or ground, compressed perspective or telephoto effect, and expanded perspective or wide-angle distortion.

Special Purpose Lens

A lens used for a specific purpose, such as a macro lens or a fisheye lens.

Studio Lighting

A complete lighting set-up to provide exact levels of light and shadow to achieve a specific effect in the final image. Used for specialized projects in fashion photography, food photography, portrait photography, product shots, and photographing fine art for reproductions.

Storage

Refers to capacity to storer digital images, expressed as RAM. Other than space available in the computer's hard drive, storage devices may include CD's and external hard drives.

Synchronized

Having a flash unit fire at the same time the shutter is open.

Synthetic

Man-made brushes contain either polyester or nylon filaments. These brushes are easy to clean, less prone to breakage and to paint solvents. Especially good for use with acrylic paints.

T-Square

A type of various drawing or drafting tools that are used by an artist to achieve a straight line in the painting. Other tools may include triangles, compasses, T-squares, French curves, mechanical pencils and erasers.

Table of Visual Elements

A set of terms used to describe the graphic or visual elements of an image.

William Henry Fox Talbot

Invented the calotype photographic process in September of 1840, and patented the process in 1841.

Texture

One of the Visual Elements. Includes emphasized texture from light hitting the subject at an angle, and minimized texture where light is coming from the camera location. Texture adds dimension and feeling, The framing used for the art should enhance the texture of the work.

The Spirit of Cape Henlopen

This painting by Lee M. Buchanan is part of our Heritage Series. Cape Henlopen Light no longer stands, a victim of a locomoting dune that ultimately consumed the land and led to the final demise of the light during a howling storm on a winter day in 1925. The pristine beauty of this light explains why it is fondly remembered by lighthouse lovers near and far.

Three Sisters of Nauset Beach

The Three Sisters Lights are painted by artist Lee M. Buchanan as they would have looked around 1870-1880 on Cape Cod, Massachusetts. This painting is part our “Heritage Series”—paintings of places that no longer exist that are based on historical research and the artist’s inspiration and vision. The Three Sisters Lights have been relocated to a park setting and are part of the Cape Cod National Seashore.

Tonal range

Refers to the characteristics of the film negative: same size as the intended print with good quality contrast between dark and light tones.

Tone and Contrast

One of the Visual Elements. Includes Tones of High key (light tones). Low key (dark tones), Full scale ( many tones of white, gray and black). Contrast may be either High ( combination of very dark and very light areas) or Low (primarily mid-gray areas.)

tooth

When used to describe the surface of paper, tooth refers to a mesh-like surface, where the interlocking fibers are rough and "grab" the art medium.

Translucent Dome

A dome used over the light sensitive cell in a light meter to diffuse light on an incident light meter.

Triangles

A type of various drawing or drafting tool used by an artist to make a 90 degree-45 degree line. Each side is scaled with different measurements. Other tools may include compasses, T-squares, French curves, mechanical pencils and erasers.

Triangular Scaled Rulers

A type of various drawing or drafting tools that are used by an artist to achieve a certain look in the painting. Tools may include triangles, compasses, T-squares, French curves, mechanical pencils and erasers.

Tripod

A three-legged stand used to secure a camera to prevent movement and provide a stable setting.

Twin-Lens Reflex

A camera with two lens, mounted one above the other. The bottom lens forms the image on the exposed film. The top lens forms an image that is reflected onto the viewing screen.

Ultraviolet-Filtering Glass

Glass that has been coated with a UV filter and will filter 97%-99% of UV rays that damage art on paper. Care still needs to be taken to protect art for the long term.

Ultraviolet light

Beyond violet, as violet is the color of the shortest wavelength. UV is often associated with sunburn that results

VRAM

Video RAM. The memory in the computer that is used for displaying images on the screen.

Valley Forge National Historic Park

Valley Forge National Historic Park is administered by the National Park Service. Located near Philadelphia, Valley Forge offers various programs and special events that interpret the history of the Revolutionary War. The Issac Potts house, which served as General George Washingon's headquarters, was purchased as an historic site after the Civil War with funds raised by a patriotic organization. The house was opened to the public during the 1880's, and Valley Forge State Park was established in 1893.

Variable-Contrast

Type of photo paper that may be used to produce prints with different contrast levels. The filter used in the print enlarger determines the level of contrast.

View Camera

A camera where the taking lens forms an image on the ground glass viewing screen. A film holder is placed in front of the viewing screen prior to exposure. Both the front and the back of the camera can be set at various angles to change perspective and focus.

Video and USB port

Components of the computer workstation necessary to transfer digital images from the camera to the computer.

View Finder

A small window on the camera which allows the photographer to view and frame the desired image.

Viewpoint

One of the Visual Elements. May be eye-level, overhead, low level, or some other unusual angle.

Visual Design

When preparing a framing package, the materials to be used should complement the art and create an overall pleasing design.

Washi

The Japanese paper mulberry, gampi and mitsumata trees are harvested for their long, study fibers that are used in paper making.

Watercolor paint

Water-based paint made with mediums and pigments especially for the watercolor artist, available in a wide range of colors.

Watercolor paper

Paper created especially for watercolor painting. Paper is produced using cotton, cellulose and a combination of fibers.

Wheat or Rice Starch Paste

This paste, made from water and either wheat or rice starch, may be used to attach a hinge for mounting art to the backer board. The hinge process is reversible without causing harm to the art.

Windsor-Newton

A brand of watercolor color paints, brushes and related supplies.

Wood pulp

Made of cellulose and may be an ingredient used in making paper. Wood pulp has a very high acid content, and may require buffers to reduce the acidity.

Wood Pulp Containing Lignin

If rag boards are made from this chemical wood pulp, the naturally occurring lignin will turn brown and acidic over time. The lignin must be removed during manufacturing for the rag board to meet archival standards.

Andrew Wyeth

An American realist painter. He is sometimes called the “painter of the people” because of his popularity with many kinds of people. He painted the land and inhabitants around his hometown of Chadd’s Ford, PA. Wyeth’s summer home is in Cushing, Maine.

Zinc

Metallic element sometimes found in paint pigments. Usage as a paint pigment is governed by ASTM guidelines.

Zone System

A method of planning the exposure and development of the film to gain precise control of the darkness in various areas of the finished print.