What is a tintype?
A tintype is a vintage photographic art from the civil war time period. This process pre-dates film. It is a slow photography process with exposures taking a few seconds rather than fractions of a second. A tintype will last for 150+ years and each tintype is one of a kind.
How is a tintype made?
Also called ‘wet plate’, a liquid “film” is poured onto a metal or glass plate and placed into a liquid silver nitrate bath. After 5 minutes the plate is placed into a light safe cartridge in a darkroom. The cartridge is then placed into the camera and the photograph is made. Next, the cartridge is removed from the camera and the plate is developed in a darkroom. After development the image appears faintly. It is placed into a fixing solution where the positive image becomes visible. The plate is then washed in distilled water and allowed to dry. Finally, a special protective varnish is put on the plate. Once the varnish has set, I scan the tintype and email you a digital file. I then put your tintype photograph into the mail or deliver in person if local.
It creates a one of a kind heirloom photograph.
What to know before having your portrait taken:
Colors read differently on tintype than on regular black and white photography. The chemistry does not recognize blue. Cool tones will appear light gray, while blue and purples appear very light, almost white.
The image will be mirrored. I recommend wearing clothing without visible logos so you don’t have backwards wording on your shirt for your photo :)
It’s important to stay as still as possible once in front of the camera with the image focused. This is for two reasons. The first, the exposure may be a few seconds depending on lighting and any movement will create a blurry image. The second, the kind of camera being used has a very shallow depth of field, meaning if you move after the camera has been focused on you, you may not be perfectly sharp when I make the exposure.
How do I display a tintype?
Plate is thin enough to fit into a regular photo frame.
You can purchase a wood or 3-D printed stand for tintype or other types of prints to stand it up.
Tintypes must be coated with a special varnish after they dry, you will not be able to take home your tintype the same day as your session. Instead, you will receive it one week later and will also receive a scan of your image to share or use digitally wherever you would like.
How To Prepare For Your Session
What should I wear to my session?
The tintype process sees mostly blue and UV light, which means colors render very differently than in other photographs. Here’s how to look your best:
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Medium to dark blues, grays, or browns all photograph well and give good contrast.
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Textures like denim, wool, corduroy, or linen read beautifully on tintype.
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Collars, buttons, vests, lace, and embroidery add period feel and great visual detail.
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Simple patterns or solids are best, avoid logos or bold prints.
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Layering adds dimension (vest over a shirt, scarf or shawl).
What to avoid:
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Bright white shirts or dresses will look muddy or vanish completely.
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Heavy makeup or shimmery products can reflect oddly.
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Glasses may reflect the sky and obscure your eyes.
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Modern logos or neon colors look out of place in this antique medium.
Accessories and Props:
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Hats, scarves, jewelry, flowers, books, instruments all photograph beautifully and tell a story.
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If you wear jewelry, silver and unpolished metal look especially nice.
FAQ
How many people can I bring to my session?
You can bring up to 4 people (including yourself) to be photographed together.
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How long will I need to sit still?
Depending on how sunny it is anywhere between 2-8 seconds.
Can I bring my kids and or pets?
Of course! As long as your headcount doesn't go over 4. Please note that it may be difficult for pets or little ones to say still for a several second exposure. This type of photography requires a slow exposure to capture the image which can result in motion blur or soft images if there's movement.
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Can we do a group photo and then a portrait of just myself?
During your booking slot, we will photograph the same group 3-4 times to ensure we get the best possible tintype image. The goal is to get one great image rather than multiple different images so I can provide you with the best one as a keepsake.
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Can I take my tintype home right after my session?
Your tintype will be mailed to you one week after your session. Tintypes need to be washed well after they are made and then dried. Once they are completely dry, they are heated and a protective varnish is poured over to ensure the image lasts a lifetime. It takes a few days for this varnish to dry and set. It also allows me to scan and email you a digital copy of your tintype to share as you wish!
Can I use a gift card?
Yes! Please redeem on the booking site. If you have problems email me directly with the date and time you want to book and I will reserve it for you.
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Ready to Book?
You can reserve your session now by clicking here.
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