WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

 

  • - What is a Tintype?
    A Tintype is made using the Wet Plate Collodion process, invented in 1851, and originally made on an enamel-coated piece of tin or iron. Now in the modern era, we use painted black aluminum. An alternative chemical emulsion called collodion is evenly flowed over the plate of aluminum creating a photographic layer of emulsion. I then place the coated aluminum into a bath of Silver Nitrate, which causes the emulsion to become light sensitive. In my darkroom, I load the silver sensitized emulsion plate into a light-tight “Plate Holder.” The plate holder allows me to safely get from the darkroom to the camera. I will then expose the plate, using high-powered UV lights that the chemical emulsion reacts to very well. I then close the plate holder and return to the safety of my darkroom where I introduce Ferrous Sulfate to the exposed wet plate aluminum. This chemical reaction causes the development process to occur and then is quickly stopped using water at the precise moment. Afterward, the plate is now no longer sensitive to light and can be “Fixed” from a negative image to a positive image. This is the magical part that everyone loves. You literately get to see yourself appear in silver, right in front of your eyes, and in fact, I provide an environment where nearly the entire photographic process can be witnessed in front of your eyes in just 10-15 minutes. The finished result is an heirloom to be passed down for generations to come.

  • TinType photographs have a way of capturing us in a very raw & honest manner. This medium may not be for you if you’re looking for an airbrushed/photoshopped look.

    Keep in mind that TinType images will appear reversed once developed. For example, a shirt with writing will appear backwards, just like when you look into a mirror.

    - How much does this cost?
    You can find pricing info for individual sizes in the “Booking” tab at the top of the page. For special events and weddings, please email me directly to discuss options further. I’m always open to ideas and willing to work with clients to make their ideas a reality.

    • What is the difference between a Tintype & Ambrotype?

      An Ambrotype is very similar in chemical process as a Tintype but requires a much more involved level or Pre & Post production, in order to successfully create this medium. Ambrotypes are the original way that Wet Plate Photographers created photo negatives in the mid 1800s. Ambrotypes are unique in that, they are pure silver metal, on clear glass. This creates what is called a “negative,” similar to a negative that one would receive with modern roll films prints. This negative, allows for a client to have contact prints made from their one-of-a-kind Ambrotype, For example: a client could come in for a studio session, to have their grandfathers portrait made, once the Ambrotype is complete, handmade prints can be made in addition to the original glass negative. Additionally, the glass negative once framed against a black background, creates a “postive image.” This positive image will then appear as a fully recognizable image. Clients are also able to display the negative image in front of any color, pattern or custom design, for a creative effect.


      - How many photos do you take, and can I pick my favorites?
      This is a one-and-done deal.
      The Wet Plate Collodion, photographic medium is expensive and requires much prep time and aftercare to produce just one shot. During a scheduled session in either a studio or exterior location, I will always re-shoot a portrait for any chemical issues or operator errors that affect the image’s focal point. If you do not like the portrait for any aesthetic reason outside of my control, a re-shoot is available for an additional $25.00 “Chemical Fee/Material Cost.” That being said, it is very important to me that each and every client is happy with their image. Every effort and consideration is made in composing and creating each image, to insure the most optimal outcome.

      - Do I have to hold still/ how long does this take?
      The answer varies. In a studio session where I’m using artificial lighting, the exposure time is rapid but still requires you to maintain your composure and to keep still. For exterior (Natural Light) sessions, you might need to stay perfectly still for anywhere from 2-10 seconds.
      Overall, the entire process takes roughly 15 minutes to complete one photograph. The overall time does not include the rinsing, drying, scanning, and varnishing process that takes place after a session ends.

      - Can you take a Tintype of my baby/dog/cat/elephant or horse?
      Yes…
      But, results will vary per subject, and results depend on their ability to stay still. I’ve successfully photographed babies and dogs on the first attempt, but this isn’t always the case. If this is of interest to you, excellent, I’m into doing it, as the results are very gratifying when successful. It’s essential that you manage your expectations and be open to a less-than-perfect result in some cases. Typically, young kids and animals will sit still for the first attempt but no longer want to sit still after experiencing the first strobe flash from the lights I use. In this case, holding your animal or kiddo might be the next best option. A private session is recommended if you wish to have one of these wiggly creatures photographed.

    • Pet Portraits are only available in the
      8X10 format. An additional
      $25.00 fee is added to each Pet Portrait for extra setup & extra time needed.

    • You know your pet best. Please use your best judgment when considering this option.

    • Generally Pet Portraits work best for low energy & senior animals.

    • Are you open to doing Private Events/Commercial Shoots or Weddings?
      Yes! Please email, and we can discuss everything in greater detail.


  • - How and when do I get my Tintype(s)?

    After you’ve attended a private studio session, event, etc, I then take the exposed Tintype(s) to my studio where they are thoroughly washed & safely stored to dry. Once the Tintype(s) are dry, I then create a high-resolution scan of the physical Tintype(s). The Tintype is then varnished and cured in an oven, sealing in all of the precious metals. The scanned Tintype(s) are then emailed to you so that you can share them with friends, and family. Also included in your email will be the time and place where you can pick up the physical Tintype(s). I do my best to make pick-up locations and times as flexible and convenient as possible. Typically the pick-up location will be my studio or the location where you attended a Pop-Up Event. You can also request to have your Tintype delivered by mail. At the time of your session or event, you will have the option to provide a physical address. You can also give an address for delivery when you receive your digital copy email. Additional shipping costs may apply depending on location, shipping options, etc. The turnaround time for receiving your Tintype(s) is 2-3 days.