Augmenting Professional Judgment with Objective Analysis
Professional Examination. Objective Analysis. A Stronger Determination.
FIRSTGEN 1 begins with experienced physical examination of the photograph itself. Our evaluators assess the print, photographic paper, image characteristics, production era, and other physical indicators to determine whether the photograph is consistent with a first-generation analog print.
For selected photographs, we add a second layer of analysis by calculating a PCI ™. The PCI ™ is designed to augment expert judgment, when needed, with an objective, documented comparison of the photographic information retained in the finished print.
The assessment starts with a high-resolution image of the photo and 50x magnified shots of detailed areas of the photo which allows for the examination of fine-information retention, edge behavior, tonal continuity, microcontrast, cross-region consistency, generational characteristics, and visible digital image structure. These observations are organized into a Photographic Clarity Index ™ score from 0 to 100, providing a consistent framework for supporting the evaluator’s initial determination.
The PCI ™ Baseline of 90 was assigned to a known collection of first-generation photos (referred to as R001) that have been granted a Type 1 designation by a leading/respected authentication Company (yes, we cracked them out of their sealed authentication holders to test them). This provides a consistent reference point against which subsequent specimens can be evaluated for relative clarity, information retention, edge behavior, tonal continuity, and other observable photographic characteristics. A sample baseline PCI ™report is included (see R001 report)
Included are examples of identical photos captured two different ways. One is a high-quality 1st generation print (see R002 PCI report). The second is the same print that appears to have been taken off a copy negative (see R003 PCI report). As you can see, they yielded PCI ™ results of 91 and 79 respectively.
When employed the result is a two-part process: experienced photographic judgment first, objective analytical support when appropriate.
EXAMPLE
What all of them will be compared to.
Achieves passing grade.
Would not pass with low resolution.
SOME FAQ'S RELATED TO THIS PROCESS
When Is the PCI™ Used?
Use of the PCI ™ is at the discretion of the evaluator and is not required for every FIRSTGEN 1 examination. It is typically reserved for higher-value or particularly significant photographs, close or difficult determinations, or situations in which objective comparative analysis can materially support, challenge, or strengthen the initial conclusion.
More Specifically what does PCI ™ evaluate?
The PCI ™ evaluates the amount, character, and consistency of photographic information retained in a finished print. By examining multiple regions of the image and comparing those characteristics with an established reference specimen, the process provides a structured basis for assessing whether the observed clarity characteristics are consistent with a high-quality, early-generation photographic print. Areas of examination include:
Fine Detail and Information Retention: Evaluation of small-scale photographic information and the degree to which fine subject detail remains resolved in the print.
Edge Behavior: Review of natural transitions, boundary definition, edge integrity, and the presence or absence of artificial or repetitive edge characteristics.
Tonal Continuity and Microcontrast: Assessment of subtle tonal transitions and localized contrast that contribute to the perception of retained photographic information.
Cross-Region Consistency: Comparison of multiple magnified regions to determine whether clarity characteristics remain coherent across different parts of the photograph.
Generational Characteristics: Consideration of whether the observed loss, retention, or character of photographic information is consistent with the expected behavior of an earlier- or later-generation print.
Digital-Structure Screening: Review for visible pixel or raster structure, aliasing, repeating digital edge patterns, interpolation or sharpening artifacts, and other detectable digital image structure.
Photographic Clarity Index
The observations are consolidated into a Photographic Clarity Index score on a 0–100 scale. The score is intended to express the strength of the specimen’s observed clarity characteristics relative to the established analytical framework.
PCI SCORE
95-100
91-94
86-90
85 or lower
ASSESMENT
Exceptional
Very Strong
Strong / PASS
FAIL
For the current PCI standard, a score must exceed 85 to pass. Accordingly, PCI 86 or higher is a PASS; PCI 85 or lower is a FAIL.
Evaluator Discretion — When the PCI Is Applied
The PCI is a supplemental analytical tool, not an automatic requirement. The evaluator determines when its use is appropriate. It is most often reserved for higher-dollar or historically significant photographs, close or difficult determinations, or any examination in which the evaluator believes an objective comparison can materially assist in reaching or supporting a conclusion.
This discretionary approach preserves the central role of expert physical examination while providing a structured analytical process for those photographs where additional objective support has meaningful value.
Relationship to the FIRSTGEN 1 Determination
The initial FIRSTGEN 1 determination is made through physical examination by an experienced evaluator. When a PCI is performed, its findings are considered supplemental evidence intended to augment and solidify that determination. The PCI is therefore best understood as an objective support mechanism within a broader expert-authentication process, rather than as a stand-alone determination of provenance or generation.