the sun shining
into the lenses.

In taking portraits, the conformation of the sitter should be minutely
studied to enable you to place her or him in a position the most
graceful and easy to be obtained. The eyes should be fixed on some
object a little above the camera, and to one side--but never into, or
on the instrument, as some direct; the latter generally gives a fixed,
silly, staring, scowling or painful expression to the face. Care
should also be taken, that the hands and feet, in whatever position,
are not too forward or back ward from the face when that is in good
focus.

If any large surface of white is present, such as the shirt front, or
lady's handkerchief, a piece of dark cloth (a temporary bosom of
nankeen is best,) may be put over it, but quickly withdrawn when the
process is about two thirds finished.

A very pleasing effect is given to portraits, by introducing, behind
the sitter, an engraving or other picture--if a painting, avoid those
in which warm and glowing tints predominate. The subject of these
pictures may be applicable to the taste or occupation of the person
whose portrait you are taking. This adds much to the interest of the
picture, which is otherwise frequently dull, cold and inanimate.

Mr. J. H. Whitehurst of Richmond, Va., has introduced a revolving
background, which is set in motion during the operation, and produces a
distinctness and boldness in the image not otherwise to be obtained.
The effect upon the background of the plate is equally pleasing; it
having the appearance of a beautifully clouded sky.

In practising Photographic drawing on paper, the student must bear in
mind that it is positively essential, to secure success in the various
processes, to use the utmost precaution in spreading the solutions, and
washes from the combination of which the sensitive surfaces result.
The same brush should always be used for the same solution, and never
used for any other, and always washed in clean water after having been
employed. Any metalic mounting on the brushes should be avoided, as
the metal precipitates the silver from its solution. The brushes
should be made of camels or badger's hair and sufficiently broad and
large to cover the paper in two or three sweeps; for if small ones be
employed, many strokes must be given, which leave corresponding streaks
that will become visible when submitted to light, and spoil the picture.

These few preliminary hints and suggestion