POP-UP tintype STUDIO

My wet plate collodion studio & darkroom is portable. This allows me to set up almost anywhere to create beautiful collodion tintypes on location.

Based out Ripon, Wisconsin, I am currently doing pop-up studios at local businesses and events throughout the Fox Valley including Green Bay, Appleton, Oshkosh, and the surrounding area.

Please consider following me on social media for updates on pop-up events.

What to expect:

  • Each tintype takes about 20 minutes. I will explain the process to you as we make the plate together. You’ll get to see the final image immediately appear on the plate during the fixing stage (everyone’s favorite part).

  • Hold still! You will need to hold your pose for several seconds because of the extremely shallow field of focus and workflow of the view cameras I use in this process. I provide a head brace to give you a point of reference so you are not tempted to sway.

  • When will my tintype be ready? You will get to see the finished image right away! These plates need to be washed for an extended period, then varnished and allowed to cure for archivability. I typically try to deliver the finished plate to the initial pop-up location for pickup the following week. I also provide the option of mailing the finished plate if needed.

  • What is the cost? On occasion I offer discounts that are associated with supporting the local business that is hosting the pop-up. Standard rates for pop-ups are: 4x5/$80 5x7/$95 and 8x10/$165

  • What to wear? I encourage people to dress their best for these portraits, but anything goes really! Fabrics like denim, corduroy, lace, or anything with texture renders beautifully in this process. Are there specific pieces of jewelry or a unique item to hold that might tell a deeper story of who you are? These tintypes will last for generations, how to you want to be remembered?

  • What about make-up? The wet plate collodion process captures a different spectrum of light than the human eye. Especially with skin tones, it has the beautiful ability to penetrate the surface and capture more of the melanin layers underneath. While this sounds strange, it is actually quite stunning and unique. Any makeup will hinder this process. I strongly encourage individuals to avoid wearing makeup for their session. Ultimately I want all of my sitters to feel comfortable and beautiful as they are, so if you want to wear makeup go right ahead!