Question 1

What is a tintype?

Accepted Answer

A tintype is a one-of-a-kind photograph made directly onto a sheet of metal or glass using a historic 19th-century photographic process. Each tintype is hand-poured, exposed, developed, individually, creating subtle variations in tone, texture, and character. The result is a physical photograph with a depth and presence that can’t quite be replicated digitally.Because every tintype is made by hand, no two are exactly alike. Small imperfections and variations are part of the process and are what make each portrait unique—an image you can hold, display, and pass down for generations.

Question 2

How long does a portrait take?

Accepted Answer

Please allow approximately 15-20 minutes per portrait and allow (up to) an additional hour for post-processing.The process involves preparing the plate, composing and lighting the portrait, making the exposure, and then developing and finishing the plate.Unlike a digital portrait session, you get to experience the photograph being created in front of you and experience the image emerging on the plate as it is developed. You'll get to experience the process as part of the finished photograph.For larger groups or multiple portraits, additional time may be needed.

Question 3

How much does a portrait cost?

Accepted Answer

4×5 tintype portraits sessions are $80.Each sessions includes one physical plate with additional plates available for $15.Each portrait is individually prepared and hand-processed, making it a completely one-of-a-kind piece of artwork.For private sessions, events, groups, or commissions, please contact me for custom pricing.

Question 4

How many photographs do you take?

Accepted Answer

Each portrait session includes one final tintype. Because each plate is individually prepared and processed, the goal isn't to take dozens of photographs and choose the best one afterward.Instead, we take our time creating a single, intentional image. We do alot for reshoots if we experience a blink or chemistry artifacts in the area of focus.Additional plates can be made upon request and are priced individually.

Question 5

How many people can be in one photograph?

Accepted Answer

A 4×5 plate can comfortably accommodate one to two people, depending on the composition and desired framing. Larger groups may be possible with an appropriate setup, but the more people included, the smaller each person will appear in the final photograph as well as proper lighting becomes a challenge. For groups larger than two, please reach out ahead of time so we can determine the best approach.

Question 6

What should I wear?

Accepted Answer

Wear something that feels like you. Simple clothing and solid colors tend to photograph beautifully, but there are no strict rules.Because tintypes are monochromatic, textures, patterns, layers, and interesting fabrics can create beautiful results. Very fine patterns may produce unusual visual effects, while extremely bright whites and deep blacks can render differently than you might expect.One thing to keep in mind: text and lettering will appear reversed in a tintype. If you're wearing a shirt, hat, or other garment with words, logos, or lettering, keep in mind that the final photograph will read as a mirror image.If you'd like a more timeless or historical feeling, natural fabrics, simple silhouettes, and darker tones can work especially well.Most importantly, choose something you feel comfortable and confident wearing.

Question 7

Can you photograph children or pets?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Children and pets can make wonderful tintype subjects.I use very powerful strobe lights and this helps reduce the traditional reliance on stillness, however for young children and energetic pets, we may need a little patience—and sometimes a few attempts—to create a successful portrait.For very young children or particularly active pets, I recommend contacting me beforehand so we can discuss the best approach.

Question 8

Can I get a digital scan of my tintype?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A high-resolution digital scan can be provided for $10. The turn around time on the digital scans is typically within 48 hours.

Question 9

There are streaks & marks on my photograph. Is this normal?

Accepted Answer

Yes—and it's part of what makes a tintype a tintype.Each plate is hand-poured, exposed, developed, fixed, washed, and finished individually. Unlike a digital photograph, there is no software removing dust, chemical marks, variations, or other traces of the process.Small streaks, spots, scratches, uneven tones, and other imperfections can occur naturally during the creation of a plate. These characteristics are not flaws or defects—they are evidence of the handmade process and make each photograph unique.No two tintypes will ever look exactly alike.

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