Tintypes

One Plate. One Moment. One of a Kind.

Since 2011, I have specialized in the historic art of wet plate collodion photography, creating one-of-a-kind tintypes—metal photographs crafted by hand using a 19th-century process known for its rich detail and timeless character. The process starts by pouring a liquid collodion solution onto a metal plate, which is then sensitized in a silver nitrate bath to make it light-sensitive. While still wet, the plate is placed in a large-format camera and exposed to light. The image is developed immediately in my studio or portable darkroom where the image appears as a negative before turning into a striking positive when fixed. Finally, the plate is washed, dried, and sealed with a hand-applied varnish to ensure its longevity for generations to come.

The result is a rich, timeless photograph with deep tones and a distinctive, ethereal quality—each plate as unique as the moment it captures.

Want to experience the magic of tintypes? Contact me to book a session or learn more. You can also find some answers to frequently asked questions on my Tintype Session Information page.