What unique characteristic do emulsion plates possess compared to dry plates?

Emulsion plates are characterized by their requirement for chemical treatment before use, which differentiates them from dry plates. This treatment typically involves one or more processes that prepare the emulsion, creating a light-sensitive surface that is essential for capturing images in traditional photography. This chemical treatment can include the application of light-sensitive silver halides and other compounds that need to be processed to ensure they are ready for exposure to light.

In contrast, dry plates are already sensitized to light and do not require the same pre-exposure preparation, allowing photographers to use them more readily. The process of preparing emulsion plates tends to be more elaborate and labor-intensive compared to the straightforward usage of dry plates. Understanding this distinction helps in grasping the technical aspects of photographic materials used in traditional photography practices.