Thesanren Tintype photography
What is a tintype?
It's an old-school photo process from 1851 called wet plate collodion. Basically, we cut an aluminum plate to size, coat it with chemicals, and sensitize it with silver nitrate. After we expose and develop it, you get a shiny image made of pure silver on the plate. Once we varnish it, this image can last for centuries! If you want to learn more about this process and give it a try yourself, consider signing up the package.I
Tintype Photography
PORTRAIT PACKAGE
During private portrait sessions, many people enjoy dressing up and having fun with the experience. I warmly welcome creative ideas and unique self-portrayals in the studio, and I always encourage everyone to wear whatever feels most comfortable to them.
1 piece of 8x10 tintype MYR800
1 piece of 5x7 and 4x5 tintype MYR1000
1 piece of 8x10 and 4x5 tintype MYR1200
COUPLE PACKAGE
This package is suitable for sharing with someone close to you. It includes three tintypes: one of both of you together and two smaller portraits of each of you individually.
1 piece of 8x10 tintype MYR1000
1 piece of 5x7 and 4x5 x2 tintype MYR1600
1 piece of 8x10 and 4x5 x2 tintype MYR1800
FAQ
How long does it take?
Creating an image takes about 10 minutes once everything is ready. The exposure time is just a fraction of a second, so there's little chance of motion blur. With large format cameras, you'll need to stay still for about 10 seconds while I focus, insert the plate, and take the picture. Moving during this time can make the image out of focus. To ensure no one feels rushed, plan to spend one to three hours in the studio, depending on how many photos you'd like.
What should I know before shooting?
- DON’T wear sunscreen. If wearing makeup please check that it doesn’t contain SPF
- AVOID wearing glasses with blue/UV light filters.
- DO come with your hair done
- DO come on time.
- Only accept a maximum 2 person
- Very powerful lights will be used for shooting. If you are sensitive to bright flashes please be aware of the risks.
What should I wear?
Dress up and have fun during your private portrait session! Feel comfortable in what you wear. Warm colors like red and orange can look dark, while blues shine brighter. Textures like lace or fur usually photograph well. Avoid all black—it might make you look like a floating head. Bring a backup outfit just in case. Questions? Just ask!
When do I get my Tintype?
After your session, it usually takes 1 month to process including framing and the digital scans within 2 weeks. Once your tintypes are ready, you'll be notified to pick them up from the studio. Occasionally, processing may take longer due to travel or other factors. If you have a deadline, please let me know when scheduling your appointment.
How to take care of tintype?
Try not to expose the coating to solvents like alcohol as the coating is actually shellac. The best thing you can do with your tintype is put it somewhere bright so it can shine with all its beauty for many years to come.