SCHEDULE A TINTYPE SESSION

What to expect

When you arrive, we’ll chat about your preferences for your session - how you want it to look and any inspiration you might have. We will look at some original tintypes from my collection and talk about the history of the medium. I’ll walk you through the process, then we’ll get you in front of the camera. After the exposure, I take the plate back into the darkroom to develop the image. Then together we will “fix” the plate, and watch your portrait come to life. Creating the image takes about 12 minutes.

 

After your session, the tintype is washed and dried. Once dry, the plate gets a high res digital scan and a layer of varnish to protect the surface. Your final tintype will be mailed out within a week's time. Shipping costs are around $8.

 

Most sessions take about 35 minutes. Please be on time! Children, pets (and some adults) can struggle with holding still. Whether you select a studio or natural light session, you’ll need to choose a pose and expression you feel confident holding for multiple seconds. Please let me know at the time of booking if your session will include a child or pet. I DO NOT have outfits or props for you to wear during your session, though you are free to bring whatever you’d like.

 

About the studio

My studio is located about 30 minutes outside of Knoxville. A barn-turned-studio, I share the space with other artists. While we consider the studio an indoor space, we do have gravel floors, no heat/air, and no public restroom. Please stop on the way if you need accommodations, and dress for the weather. The studio is situated in the mountains, which isn’t always accessible for folks with mobility differences. Please let me know if you need assistance and we can figure something out.

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What should I wear?

Tintypes see in UV light, meaning that colors often translate in unexpected ways. Warm colors like orange and red tend to lean dark, while cooler colors like blue and purple lean light. Textures, patterns and accessories look great. Folks who wear glasses should note that sometimes lenses can tint dark like sunglasses. Avoid wearing anything with text, as the image will come out backwards. Avoid wearing all black or all white.

 

How many tintypes will we make?

Each tintype is a unique object. If you want to add more during your session you may do so, as long as we have the time. Additional tintypes added to a session are given a 15% discount.

 

What if I don't like my tintype?

The tintype process is known for its ability to show every freckle and wrinkle, which isn't everyone's cup of tea. I will only reshoot the image at no additional cost if there is a major chemical malfunction or error on my end. Be flexible and keep in mind that imperfection is a part of the process.

 

Giftcards?

Yes - email me with the size and session type you’re interested in, and I will mail out a physical gift card to your preferred address. All gift cards are good for one full year.

 

Package deals?
Yep! If you're interested in having multiple tintypes made in a session, I'll put together a package based on your needs and budget. 

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Can I use my image commercially?

While I retain all copyright to the images I make, I'm happy to discuss usage fees and details.

 

Deposit requirements
A  20% deposit is required at the time of booking for all sessions and goes toward the final cost of your session. No call/no shows and cancellations with less than 48 hours notice will forfeit their deposit, and will be required to send a new one when rescheduling. 

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Other photography services

Reach out if you're interested in more traditional types of portraiture, event photography, artwork documentation, branding, etc. See my commissions tab for examples.

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Health & safety warning

Chemicals are used in the tintype process, and some folks may be sensitive to the fumes they emit. Let me know if this sounds like you, and we can keep you away from them. If you elect for a strobe light session, know that this option utilizes a bright, powerful flash. If you are sensitive to high powered lighting, consider the natural light option. Please do not hesitate to contact me with concerns you might have about the process. I'm happy to accommodate all that I can to ensure a fun experience for everyone!