What is a tintype? 

One of the earliest photographic methods, dating back to the 1850s, a tintype is a direct positive image, exposed through a wet chemical process directly onto a thin piece of metal.

The large format camera and antique lens provides a romantic effect, while the characteristics of the chemical process add artifacts and uniqueness. The finished product is a tangible metal plate with the image composed of the contrast between the black metal, and the highlights made of pure metallic silver.

FAQs

Q:Can my significant other/friend/kids/pets be in the portrait? 

A: Of course, though I’m limiting to two subjects, with maybe a small child held between parents. Some other things to keep in mind, oftentimes younger children and pets show up blurry due to the very thin focus (depth of field). The flash may also scare pets or young children.

Q:How long are the sessions? 

A: It takes a total of 20-30 mins from start to finish. The wetplate process is a lot slower than what we are used to with digital, but the results are well worth the time and care.

Q: Can I get my tintype retaken? 

A: We’ll take our time because we only get one take. I can only retake the photo if there is something wrong with the exposure or the chemistry.

Q: Do I get to keep my tintype the day of the session? 

A: No, but I will be developing on site (it’s a cool process, you can watch!) so you’ll get to see it right away. Then I’ll take it with me to the studio, scan and varnish it. You can expect a digital file within 1-3 days of your session and the physical plate within 10-15 days of your session.

Q: I see your standard plate is 5x7, Can I get a different size? 

A: Yes! You can upgrade to a full size 8x10 plate the day of the shoot for an additional $65. Since these are one of a kind images made on the spot, you'll have to decide which size before we take the picture. I can even do Ultra Large Format plates up to 16x20, but you'll want to send me an email inquiry for that because it takes lots of extra time preparation and equipment. 16x20 plates start at $1000 but are truly stunning.

Q: What should I wear? 

A: It’s important to be comfortable and to wear something that you feel represents who you are, but there are certain colors that develop best in portraits. Avoid wearing all white or all black- in between tones are best. Textures look great! For those wondering about makeup, avoid purples and bright pink or fuchsia lipsticks - unfortunately, these show up white. True reds show up as black. Glasses don’t typically translate correctly. Most times, there’s a lot of glare or they look like sunglasses. You are welcome to wear your glasses but I can’t retake if you don’t like how they turn out. Alternatively, you can pop the lenses out.

Q: Can I dress up? 

A: Absolutely, I do have to work quickly to keep on schedule, so please be ready to go at your appointed time. 

Q: Am I standing still for a long time? 

A: Kind of, Most shots only require you to hold perfectly steady for 2-6 seconds. It will be important to stay as still as possible during that time to ensure that your photos don’t develop blurry. I’ll use a flash to help freeze the moment, but I’ll still need you to hold as steady as possible to ensure a correctly focused photo.

Q: Can I smile? 

A: Yes, I find that a relaxed smile with no teeth is really nice. What part of me is in the photo? Waist up, or just head and shoulders. This has to do with the lighting I can bring.

Note: Please arrive early/on time and be photo ready. (Costumes, makeup ect. ready to go). This is a very fast paced day and I want to be respectful of other people's bookings and time.