site.btaEurope’s Only Natural Light Photography Studio Still Thrives in Romania
The only photography studio in Europe that operates exclusively with natural light is located in Romania. It stands at 24A Lajos Kossuth Street in the town of Odorheiu Secuiesc, the second largest in Harghita County, and has been in operation since as far back as 1876. Its equipment dates back even further, to 1870, and continues to function flawlessly to this day.
All photographs in the studio are developed solely using chemical processes. Even retouching is done with an old camera and sharp tools. There is no digital intervention, only human skill is required.
“The ceiling is glass, and the incoming light is adjusted manually using suspended blue and grey-white curtains. The photography chair has a back support to keep the subject still,” explains Arpad Kovats, a fourth-generation photographer and proud heir to the family-run studio. He works alongside his father.
Photographs displayed on the walls and in the courtyard capture compelling moments from the town's history – from its first car, train, and railway line to its first ski jump and everyday local life. Some 3D images are also exhibited, and an original stereoscope from the year 1900 rests on a small table.
“Some of the photos were taken with a camera that has two lenses, just like us humans, who have two eyes,” notes Arpad Kovats. He also proudly shows photos of Queen Marie of Romania taken during her visit to the region.
At the end of the meeting, the photographer brings out an intriguing artifact from the archive – a walking cane that secretly houses his grandfather’s tripod.
Every tourist who passes through has the chance to take home a black-and-white portrait as a souvenir. The development process takes a few days, and the price is affordable. The finished photo is mailed directly to the customer.
Proceeds go toward maintaining the studio, but also toward fulfilling a dream: digitizing the archive of more than 80,000 glass plate negatives. “We want to create a museum for the public. Unfortunately, we receive no support from the authorities or the state,” shares Arpad Kovats.
/KK/
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