The Skylight and the Dark Room: A Complete Textbook on Portrait Photography is a comprehensive guide to the art of portrait photography, written by Elbert Anderson and originally published in 1872. The book covers all aspects of the portrait photography process, from selecting and preparing the subject, to lighting and composition, to developing and printing the final image. Anderson's writing is clear and concise, with detailed explanations and practical advice for photographers of all levels. He covers a wide range of topics, including the use of natural and artificial light, the selection of backgrounds and props, and the importance of posing and expression. The book also includes numerous illustrations and diagrams, as well as sample portraits and technical specifications for various cameras and lenses. Anderson's emphasis on the technical aspects of photography is balanced by his appreciation for the artistic and creative elements of the craft, making this book a valuable resource for both amateur and professional photographers. Overall, The Skylight and the Dark Room is a timeless classic that remains relevant and useful for anyone interested in the art and science of portrait photography.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.