Ok, so I always ask the waaayyy out there questions. Has anyone photographed someone smoking? I would have thought it was more common but apparently not.
I would be fairly close to photograph the person, within 3 feet. Is my plate going to blow up, catch fire or go hang wire in any way? My subject would not be close to my chemistry as I will be using a darkroom.

You guys are always helpful.
thx in advance.
C.

You will be fine.

some years ago, we experimented with the flammability of collodion around the campfire at John Coffers Jamboree. We poured it on the rocks of the fire ring..nothing. We tried to light it with cigarettes..nothing.

Of course it will ignite if you get direct flame within the vapors...but with what you are suggesting...you will be fine.

thanks Ray
that is what I thought.
Just using due diligence.

All the best,
C.

I agree with Ray, the most volatile thing we use is the ether, and unless you keep the collodion open in a small space where the fumes can collect there is little worry about explosion. It is good to keep careful, though. Catching fire sucks.