Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the Tintype process take?
The initial setup for a pose is around 10 minutes, which includes assessing lighting and exposure. Once this is set up, it takes around 10 minutes to make each plate. It takes 3-5 minutes to develop a plate, 1 minute to fix the plate.
Will I be able to decide the pose?
Yes! You can bring props, outfits, and reference images to help communicate your desired photograph. We'll start the session with a consultation about what kind of look you'd like for your photo(s), its overall feeling, and composition. We aim for you to leave feeling satisfied and excited about the end result.
When will I get my completed image?
After the process of making an image, the plate is then rinsed in water for 30 minutes. You can kiss your plate so long (for now) and we'll arrange pickup (free of charge) or mailing (available for $5) before you leave the session. I will apply a wax to the surface of your photograph to protect the silver from tarnishing, and it will be ready to pickup after 24 hours.
What should I wear?
The wet plate process is both photographic and expressive, with a special sensitivity to color. Tintype interprets colors and values differently than traditional black-and-white film. Bright blue appears as bright white or grey, and even tattoos may disappear on one's skin. Reds, greens, and some yellows appear dark. Props, patterns, hats, and textures are especially fun for tintype, so please consider this as you plan your outfit! Keep in mind that text will appear as a mirror-image in the final photograph. Some eyeglasses appear as sunglasses in this process, so I recommend you remove your glasses just prior to the photograph.
For boudoir and nude photos, please contact me to make an appointment.
Can I get a photograph of my child or pet?
For natural/outdoor lighting without studio lights: It is difficult for young children and infants to be perfectly still throughout the exposure. I'm happy to include your child in a portrait, but be forewarned that they will appear just like children in antique photographs - blurry!
For indoor lighting: making the photograph includes a bright flash (for an instant), so it may be jarring but will result in a more focused portrait.