Schedule a tintype session

What to expect

When you arrive at the studio, we’ll chat about your hopes and dreams for your session. How you want it to look, any inspiration/examples you might have, etc. We will take a look at some 19th century tintypes from my personal collection and talk about the history of the medium. 

 

I’ll walk you through some of the alchemy, then we’ll get you in front of the camera. After we make the exposure, I take the plate back into the darkroom for a few moments to develop the negative image. Then together we will “fix” the plate, and watch the positive come to life in the light! Creating the image takes about 12 minutes.

 

After your session, the image 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 between $5-$8.

 

Most sessions take about 45 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 about 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 props you’d like! 

 

About the studio

My studio is located in Luttrell, TN - just outside of Knoxville. A barn-turned-studio, I share the space with three other artists. While we consider the studio an indoor space, we do have gravel floors, no traditional heat/air, and no public restroom. Please stop on the way if you need accommodations that we don’t have, and dress for the weather. The studio is situated in the mountains, which isn’t always accessible for folks with mobility challenges. 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, accessories and jewelry look GREAT.  Jewelry, hats, scarves - go wild! 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, as contrasting colors and fabrics tend to look best. Tintypes can see every pore, and I typically advise a light amount of makeup if you prefer to wear it. Red lipsticks will come out dark, sometimes black.

 

How many tintypes will we make?

Each tintype is completely unique. We can make as many plates as you’d like during your session, I just need to know at the time of booking. If you want to add more during your session you may do so, so long as we have the time. Additional tintypes added to a session are given a discounted rate, typically between $5 and $15. 

 

What if I don't like my tintype?

The tintype process is known for its ability to show every freckle and wrinkle, which sometimes isn't everyone's cup of tea.  Reshoots will require a $25 chemical/processing fee. If there is a major chemical malfunction disrupting the image I will reshoot at no additional cost. Be flexible and keep in mind that imperfection is part of the beauty of this historic 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 just for you based on your needs and budget. 

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House calls/on location shoots/events

Yes! Pricing is based on event type and distance from my studio. Please email me at kelseytdillow@gmail.com to discuss potential events/travel sessions. 

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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 with anyone interested.

 

Deposit requirements
A  20% deposit is required at the time of booking, and goes towards 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

Yes. Please reach out if you're interested in more traditional types of portraiture, event photography, artwork documentation, branding, etc. Please see my commissions tab for examples of my work.

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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. Please let me know if this sounds like you, and we can keep you away from them! If you elect for a strobe light session, be aware that this option utilizes a bright, powerful flash. If you are sensitive to high powered lighting, you might opt for the natural light session. Please do not hesitate to contact me with any other concerns you might have about the process. I'm happy to accommodate all that I can to ensure a fun experience for everyone!