What is a tintype?

A tintype is a handmade photograph created using a 19th-century process called wet plate collodion. Unlike modern photography, tintypes are made by hand-coating a metal plate with light-sensitive chemicals, exposing it in a large format camera while it's still wet, and developing it immediately in a darkroom or portable darkbox. The final image appears directly on the plate — there's no film or digital file involved.

A little history…

Tintypes were first introduced in the 1850s and quickly became popular during the American Civil War because they were faster and cheaper to produce than earlier photographic processes like daguerreotypes. Photographers could set up portable darkrooms in tents or wagons and make portraits for soldiers and their families on the spot. Tintypes were durable, affordable, and accessible — the first form of photography for the masses.

They remained popular into the early 20th century, especially at fairs, carnivals, and on the street. Over time, the process faded out as faster and more convenient forms of photography emerged.

Today, tintype photography is experiencing a revival among artists and photographers who value its tactile beauty, unpredictability, and hands-on process. Each image is truly one of a kind — raw, imperfect, soulful, and permanent. No filter, no digital manipulation, just light, chemistry, and time.

What can I expect during a tintype session?

A single tintype portrait takes about 15–20 minutes, including setup, posing, exposure, and development.

We'll start by posing you for the portrait. Think about how you would like your image to be composed beforehand, whether it's a full-body shot you'd prefer, a close-up of your face/upper body, or something else!

Next, the “film” is prepared in the darkroom by coating an aluminum plate with collodion and immersing it in a tank of silver nitrate for 3 minutes. This sensitizes the plate to UV light. The plate is then carefully transferred from the darkroom to the camera in a light-tight holder.

I proceed to capture your image! During the exposure, you'll need to remain still for up to 15 seconds, depending on the lighting conditions. Blinking is okay but any other movement may result in a blurred effect.

After capturing the image, I return to the darkroom where developer is poured onto the plate, converting the silver that has been exposed to light into metallic silver. Once developed, fixer is applied to the plate outside of the darkroom for you to watch. This is the exciting "magic" moment when your final image emerges.

Finally, the tintype is taken back to the studio for washing and varnishing. Once this process is complete, your portrait will be mailed to you to enjoy for years to come! 

Can Pets and Young Children be Photographed?

Tintype photography is a slower process that requires holding still for exposure times between 1-15 seconds, depending on lighting conditions.

Children: Toddlers and older children who can follow gentle guidance tend to do well. Babies can be photographed, too — ideally while being held by a parent or when they’re calm and sleepy.

Pets: Calm or well-trained pets work best. I recommend bringing treats, a favorite toy, or someone they trust to help position them and keep their attention focused. Dogs tend to be the easiest for this. If you're unsure how your pet might handle the experience, feel free to reach out — we can talk through whether a session is a good fit.

The slight motion blur or imperfections that come with a wiggly subject often add to the charm and authenticity of a tintype — making it not just a portrait, but a little moment in time.

What should I wear for a tintype?

Tintype photography sees the world differently than modern cameras — it reacts to light, texture, and contrast in ways that can make certain clothing and colors appear very different on the plate.

Here are some tips to help you look your best in your portrait:

Colors and Tones

Tintypes are essentially monochrome (black and silver tones), but they respond to light in a way that’s different from black-and-white film. For example:

• Blues and whites appear very bright or blown out

• Reds, oranges, and yellows look much darker or even black

• Earth tones, denim, and natural fabrics show up beautifully

If you’re unsure, think medium contrast — nothing too bright, nothing too dark.

Textures and Layers

The camera loves texture. Fabrics like linen, wool, denim, corduroy, lace, and knits all photograph beautifully. Layers can add visual interest — scarves, jackets, vests, and accessories bring depth to the image.

Can I wear clothing with logos or lettering?

Tintypes are direct positive images, which means words and logos will appear reversed. It’s up to you if you would like to wear something with lettering - just be aware of the final effect.

Please feel free to bring accessories or props that feel meaningful to include in your tintype session.