Slow portrait sessions!
In 1871, Dr. Richard Leach Maddox introduced the dry plate process to create tintype and ambrotype photographs. We carry on the tradition of using this dry plate technique to make unique tintype portraits right here in Edinburgh, the city where the first commercial portrait studio was started.
This is a unique, traditional portrait and dark room experience. You will be involved in the whole process from sitting for the portrait to developing the image in the darkroom, using traditional photography techniques. You get to witness the magic of analogue photography and when it's finished you get to hold that magic in your hand. It's an image and an experience which will last a lifetime.
Sessions are priced per plate, not per person. If there are more than two of you in a session, it's recommended to get an 8x10.
The ideal large group size is 4, but I can accommodate up to 6 adults if necessary. Groups of more are best done using my outdoor session option
How does a session work?
Together we'll create a portrait using this the dry plate process. As well as getting a timeless and authentic portrait, you'll get to be involved in developing the image in the darkroom too! It's magical and meditative, producing a unique photographic keepsake and a truly memorable experience.
When you arrive at the studio, we'll spend a few minutes to discuss how to sit for a tintype to get the best results. I'll explain the process of composing, focussing and then exposing the plate. The time required to focus and be still is longer than digital photography so I'll help you settle into a natural still position.
Once we have taken the image we'll go to the dark room to develop the plate. After that the plate is dried, scanned, varnished then dried again.
Your tintype is handed to you after drying and varnishing. This can all take place while you wait, or you can head out for a bite to eat or drink nearby and return when the plate is ready. It's totally up to you.
Common Questions
Can I smile? Yes — especially a soft, natural smile. Broad grins are harder to hold still and in focus, but we can try a few variations if you're comfortable.
How long does the session take? Most tintype sessions last about 75-120 minutes, including discussion, setup, development and finishing.
Will I get a digital version? Yes. Every client receives a high-resolution scan of their tintype.
What's the studio address? "The Shop With No Name", 2a Broughton Place, EH1 3RX
If you have any questions, reach out to me before the session. I'll be happy to chat.
Preparing for your tintype
Because the dry plate process requires a more set up than modern photography, a little preparation goes a long way towards a great result. Here's what to keep in mind before you arrive.
Babies and very young children — Setting a camera for a tintype session is longer than with a modern camera. Young children who are not yet able to sit still for a few seconds may be harder to keep in focus. Don't worry though. I've got a lot of experience photographing families with young children and I have developed some techniques which ensure we get great photographs of the youngest members of the family.
Pets — Dogs, cats, and other animals can make wonderful tintype subjects, but they may be harder to keep in focus if they are lively or easily distracted. If you are booking a session with a pet, please let me know in advance so I can prepare for the session. We usually give the pets about 30 mins to settle in to the studio space before we start taking the portrait. The same techniques I use for babies works for pets so don't worry, the end result will be amazing!
Clothing with lettering or logos — Tintypes produce a laterally reversed image (like a mirror), so any text on clothing — names, slogans, brand logos — will appear backwards on the finished plate. If that matters to you, it's worth choosing plain clothing or items without visible text for the session.
Reflective or very dark fabrics — Highly reflective materials such as sequins or metallic finishes can create uneven exposures. Very deep blacks may also render differently than you'd expect compared to a digital photograph. Mid-tones and textures generally look beautiful on a tintype.
Movement during exposure — The nature of the process means that any movement during the focusing stage may make the important parts of the portrait out of focus. I'll guide you into a comfortable, supported position before we expose the plate, which helps considerably.
Group size — The ideal group size is up to 4 people for a studio session; I can accommodate up to 6 adults if necessary. Larger groups are best accomodated by an outdoor session on an 8x10 plate and a little patience are recommended. For groups larger than 4, please consider the
outdoor session option.
Not sure whether your group or subject is a good fit? Just drop me a message — I'm happy to help you decide before you commit to a booking.
Caring for your tintype
Tintypes are made on a thin metal plate with a delicate image surface. Support the plate from beneath, and never touch the image side directly. Store away from moisture and rapid temperature changes, and frame using acid-free materials with a spacer to keep glass off the surface.
Read the full Tintype Care and Handling Guide →
