Book a Session
Located near downtown Louisville, my studio occupies the first floor of a house built in 1885, with a darkroom and portrait parlor modeled after those in the 19th century. In a studio portrait session, we’ll discuss the tintype process, look at historical and contemporary examples, and plan poses for portraits. You’ll see the process from start to finish, from coating a plate to developing in the darkroom.
I offer 3 ways to book a session:
Please read before moving forward:
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This is not a digital or film-based process. Each image takes around 10 minutes from start to finish, from hand-coating a plate to developing the image in the darkroom.
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With the bright flash of my studio lights, exposure is instantaneous so you don't need to hold still for long.
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You'll receive your plates via pickup or mail after your session. Because your image will be made of silver, I apply a protective varnish after your session so the reflective surface will last forever. In most cases, your plates will be ready for mailing or pickup 3 days after your session. You'll select mailing (for a small fee) or pick-up during your session.
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I use antique lenses and recommend no more than 3 people in each photo.
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Photographs are intended for personal use only. For commercial use and licensing, please email me to arrange your session.
Photography has a long history of exclusion and othering. At River City Tintype, we're committed to using the power of portraiture to embrace and include everyone. Come as you are, all gender expressions welcome. Love is love.
Book a session online
Check out my online booking platform for sessions at my studio, 326 E College Street, Louisville, KY 40203.
One Plate Portrait, $80
(featuring up to 3 people)
Additional plates $70 each.
8" x 10" Portrait - $160
A larger composition transforms a portrait into an artwork.
Additional plates $120 each.
Group Session / Tintype Party at my studio
The perfect gift for wedding celebrants gathering before the big day, coworkers getting together for time away from the office, and more. I'll give a tour of the studio, show you my collection of antique portraits, and we'll talk early photography tools and techniques. Everyone can get their own beautiful heirloom portrait or analog headshot. We can discuss refreshments ahead of time to make it a whole event!
Priced per plate:
First 4x5 is $80, then $70 each
First 8x10 is $160, then $120 each
Request a Studio Session
Looking for a studio session at a particular date and time? Please email me to check availability. We can usually add a plate to a session. Additional 4x5 plates: $70 each. Additional 8x10 plates: $120 each.
These sessions will all take place at my studio at 326 E College Street, Louisville.
On-Location and House Calls
Have an idea for a tintype shoot at your place? Contact me with your idea.
4x5 session: $500 for three 4x5 plates. $70 per additional plate.
8x10 session: $700 for three 8x10 plates. $120 per additional plate.
Traveling fees apply when you are more than 20 miles from my studio:
20-30 miles: $25; 30-40 miles: $45; 50-60 miles: $75.
More than 60 miles? Please contact me for details.
