Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: How long do I have to stay Still?
A: just a split second. back in the day exposures could take up to 2 mins depending on lighting but when I shoot studio work I light with very powerful modern flashes so the exposure is instant. (exposures made outside are still the same as it was in 1860 ... so they can get long but usually between 1-10 seconds)
Q: Can you shoot groups, dogs, kids?
A: Yes but with some limitations, We can shoot groups of up to 5 in a studio flash scenario, but for large groups as long as everyone can stay still we can shoot as many people as you like outside. As for kids and dogs we can photograph them no problem, I have a specially made camera just for this reason but must be done in Studio.
Q: How long will it take to make each picture?
A: About 8-12 Mins. without the help of an assistant. It takes about 4-5 Mins to get the plate ready to photograph (during this time I'm happy to explain the process as I go) then 1-2 mins to frame, load and shoot. then we develop it right in front of you that takes about 2 mins. then you simply need to give me another 15-20 mins to run the image though its final wash before I can box it up for you to take home. that said I can usually shoot 6-10 4X5 Plates in an hour.
Q: Can we get multiple prints of the same picture for groups.
A: Unfortunately no. Each tintype is a unique one of a kind original, and each one must be made individually. If a group wants multiple pictures they will need to have multiple frames made back to back, each will be unique one of a kind images.
Q: Can I hire you to come to my: staff party, film wrap party, birthday, prized boat, cabin, motorcycle race, wedding, Film shoot ect. To shoot some Tintypes
A: Absolutely,I designed the trike specially to allow me to go anywhere and photograph anything + would love to work with you to make a Tintype that will last generations of whatever it is you dream of. That said I can only physically produce so many in set amount of time so that can limit the amount I am able to do in one night. Please contact me with any questions regarding events or commissions.
Q: Is it made with real silver?
A: YES IT IS. Simply put the highlights of your image are made of real silver that is aheased to the tintype via the process. In person I am happy to explain this in depth.
Q: how long will my tintype last.
A: The tintypes that were shot in 1860 are still around today. Depending on a various factors tintypes can last 180 + Years.
Q: I Got my tintype done at an event, Is it finished?
A: Not completely. Due to time constraints at events in order for you to take them home the same day I am unable to VARNISH them, that seals them from air and protects the top layer from oxidizing, But worry not its easy to do yourself and the stuff you need to do it can be ordered off amazon, the link will show you hows its done! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZivhRvPIvtE generally tintypes should be sealed within a month of them getting made but unvarnished ones still last a long time but run the risk of getting an aged patina.