ABOUT OUR STUDIO

Our studio is located in the heart of Barrio Logan, inside the Art Hub, where we share space with a community of talented artists. You may see other artists working in their studios during your visit, adding to the creative energy of the space.

We recently moved into a larger studio, now equipped with a dedicated darkroom featuring a viewing window, so you can watch the development process in real time. While the studio is well-ventilated and has fume extractors and air purifiers, some chemical smells from the darkroom may still be noticeable. If you are sensitive to strong scents, please let us know in advance.

Our space comfortably fits one to three people for a session, but if you are planning a portrait with more than three people, please reach out beforehand so we can make accommodations.

We love collaborating on creative ideas! If you have a vision for your tintype, please share it with us ahead of time so we can tailor the session to you.

CAN I TAKE MY PHOTO HOME AFTER THE SESSION?

No, tintypes require careful processing and preservation. After your session, your plate will still be wet (wet plate collodion) and needs time to dry naturally, which can take anywhere from a few minutes to several hours.

Once dry, we scan your tintype in high resolution and then apply a protective varnish made from lavender oil and sandarac gum. This varnish preserves your image for a lifetime and leaves a subtle scent that lingers for weeks.

Your tintype will be ready for pickup in approximately 5 days. You can either pick it up at the studio or opt for shipping anywhere in the U.S. for $15.

You will receive a digital scan of your tintype via email around the same time. If you need your image sooner, let us know—we can try to accommodate.

HOW MANY IMAGES DO YOU MAKE?

Each tintype is handmade and one-of-a-kind. If you would like multiple plates, please book one of our combo packages, which offer a selection of different sizes or multiple plates.

WHAT IF I DON'T LIKE MY TINTYPE? 

Tintypes are created using an unpredictable, antique process, and slight imperfections are part of their unique beauty. However, if there is a significant chemical issue or an error on my part that affects the image, I will happily remake it.

If you simply don’t like how your plate turned out and would like a reshoot, I offer a discounted rate for an additional plate.

CAN I USE MY TINTYPE COMMERCIALLY?  

Yes! While I retain copyright over the images I create, I’m happy to discuss usage fees and licensing details for commercial use. Please reach out if you're interested in using your tintype for commercial purposes.

DEPOSIT REQUIREMENTS: 

To book a tintype session, a non-refundable $40 is required at the time of booking. This deposit goes toward the final cost of your session.

• No-call, no-shows and cancellations made less than 48 hours before the session will forfeit their deposit.

• If you need to reschedule, please reach out with at least 48 hours in advance so we can help you reshechule your appointment.

COLORS IN TINTYPES – UNDERSTANDING ORTHOCHROMATIC FILM

Tintypes do not capture color the same way modern cameras do. The wet plate collodion process is orthochromatic, meaning it is more sensitive to cooler tones (blues, greens, whites) and less sensitive to warmer tones (reds, oranges, yellows).

• Blues & whites appear much brighter

• Reds, oranges, and yellows appear much darker—sometimes nearly black

• Black clothing can appear light gray depending on the fabric

• Patterns and textures can look more dramatic than in color photography

Additionally, tintypes are laterally reversed, meaning the final image is a mirror image of what you see in real life. You may notice this in text (if you’re wearing something with writing on it) or in facial features, such as parting in your hair.

I’ve provided a side-by-side example comparing a digital color image vs. a tintype so you can see both how colors shift and how the image flips horizontally.

If you have any questions or need recommendations on what to wear, feel free to ask before your session!