How to Prepare for Your Tintype Portrait

Tintypes are unique, handmade, one-of-a-kind portraits. The process has several characteristics that are quite different from modern analog or digital photography.

Below are some helpful suggestions to keep in mind as you prepare for your session.

The Process

Tintype photographs are created on metal or glass plates and are taken and developed either in the studio or on-site using a traveling darkroom. Each image is a direct positive, making every plate a truly original piece.

Once dry, the image can be scanned for sharing or printing. The plate is then varnished to make it archival. When properly coated, cured, and stored, tintypes have been known to last well over 100 years.

Posing

Tintype exposures are much slower than modern film or digital photography, which means they require strong lighting and careful preparation.

Exposure times typically last a few seconds, but when working in natural sunlight—as was done in the 1800s—exposures can range from 12 to 15 seconds.

You will need to hold your pose completely still for the entire exposure. You are welcome to pose naturally (and smile), as long as you can maintain the position without movement. Any motion will result in blur. A headrest is available if you need assistance staying still.

For studio portraits, we use artificial lighting. These sessions typically focus on head-and-shoulders compositions. While setup still takes time, studio lighting significantly reduces the amount of time you need to remain still during the exposure. I prefer studio portraits using flash lighting-strobes.

Clothing

Timeless styles tend to photograph best.

• Avoid clothing with writing, numbers, or logos, as they will appear reversed in the final image.

• Lighter colors are recommended; avoid solid black when possible.

Tintype chemistry renders colors differently than standard black-and-white photography:

• Cool tones (especially blue) appear very light or washed out

• Blues and purples often render as pale gray or nearly white

• Warm tones (red, orange, yellow) appear darker, ranging from gray to black

Tattoos

Tattoos created with dark blue pigment may not appear clearly in tintypes. In some cases, they may look very faint—or not visible at all.

Makeup

Because tintypes are less sensitive to blue tones, certain makeup choices may not translate as expected.

• Avoid blue eyeliner or eyeshadow, as well as cool-toned pinks and reds

• Natural or everyday makeup often appears washed out

To achieve a visible “light makeup” look on tintype:

• Apply makeup more heavily than usual

• Use defined eyeliner, mascara, and possibly false lashes

• Choose deeper tones like purple or café brown lipstick

For a more dramatic look:

• Use fuller false lashes

• Consider red or black lipstick

• Add contouring for definition

One of the most beautiful qualities of tintypes is the luminous appearance of skin. To enhance this effect, we can apply a light layer of jojoba or olive oil just before your session.

If you have a specific look in mind, we’re happy to help guide you. We can also recommend a professional hair and makeup artist if needed.

Final Thoughts

I love creating tintypes, and I hope you will cherish your portrait for generations to come.

If you have any questions about these recommendations, please don’t hesitate to reach out.