Wet Plate
Photography
Also known as ferrotypes, tintypes are created by producing a direct positive image on a thin sheet of iron (despite the name, no tin is involved). The metal plate is coated with collodion, sensitized with silver nitrate, and then exposed in the camera. After development and fixing, the image appears as a positive due to the dark background of the metal plate.
Tintypes became widely popular for their durability and fast production time. Unlike earlier photographic methods that required long exposures and delicate handling, tintypes could be made quickly, often in outdoor or mobile studios. This made them especially popular during the American Civil War, when soldiers and families sought affordable, portable portraits. Some tintypes were hand-tinted with color or varnished for added detail and preservation.
Ambrotypes are similar in process but differ in presentation. Instead of metal, the image is made on a sheet of glass, also coated with collodion and sensitized with silver nitrate. Once developed, the resulting negative is made to appear as a positive by placing a dark backing—such as black varnish, fabric, or a dark metal—behind the glass. The final image is often sealed in a protective case with a cover glass, giving it a distinctive, refined appearance.
Ambrotypes are known for their sharp detail and subtle tonal range, often giving the subject a soft, luminous quality. However, they are more fragile than tintypes and were typically used in more controlled studio settings.
The answer to this largely depends on the size of tintype you are wanting + everything you want included in the photo - I strongly recommend the following:
4x6 Horizontal: 2-3 people
4x6 Vertical: Solo or two people - at most 2 people + a dog(:
5x7 Horizontal: 2-5 people
5x7 Vertical: 2-4 (4 could be pushing it)
8x8: Could creatively fit in about 10 or more people!
Exceeding these numbers can result in cramped, uncomfortable positioning and loss of clear, detailed representations of each person.
The short version?
A LONG time!
The long version?
A tintype photo, when properly cared for, can last for generations, sometimes up to 150 years or more. The durability of a tintype image is largely due to the metal plate on which it’s created, which is resistant to the environmental conditions that can affect more delicate photographic materials. However, there are several factors that can influence the longevity of a tintype:
Factors Influencing Tintype Longevity:
Proper Storage: To ensure the tintype lasts as long as possible, it should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and humidity. A protective case or frame with UV-protective glass is ideal to shield the photo from dust, dirt, and physical damage.
Physical Protection: Since tintypes are made on thin sheets of metal, they can be prone to scratches, dents, or bending. Keeping them in a protective cover or album can help preserve the integrity of the surface.
Avoiding Abrasive Cleaning: Cleaning a tintype should be done gently, with a soft, dry cloth if necessary. Harsh cleaning chemicals or abrasive materials can damage the surface or alter the image.
Environmental Factors: Extreme temperature fluctuations or high humidity can degrade the quality of the tintype over time. Keeping them away from damp areas or places with high heat (like attics or basements) will help ensure their longevity.
Chemical Stability: While the metal base of the tintype is durable, the photographic emulsion (which is made of silver and collodion) can deteriorate if exposed to certain elements. Tintypes are less susceptible to fading compared to other photographic processes, but exposure to air and light over long periods can still cause gradual fading if not properly protected.
Short version:
A tintype photo can last for generations, even up to 150 years or more, if well cared for. Its durability is due to the metal plate, which resists environmental damage more than delicate photographic materials.
Since tintypes, which are created on metal plates, often produce a dramatic, high-contrast effect, choosing the right clothing materials can make a big difference in the final result. Here are the best fabrics to consider for tintype portraits:
Solid, Dark Fabrics: Dark, rich fabrics like black velvet, wool, or heavy cotton work particularly well. These materials create a strong contrast against the light areas of the photograph, helping to emphasize the facial features and bring attention to the subject. Dark colors also absorb light, which can contribute to a more flattering image.
Textured Fabrics: Fabrics with texture, such as linen, tweed, or silk, can add a visual interest to the image, making the photograph feel more dynamic and multidimensional. Textures can catch the light in interesting ways, giving depth to the image without overwhelming it.
Drapey Fabrics: Soft, flowing fabrics like silk, satin, or fine wool create a sense of movement and elegance in tintype portraits. These fabrics can also help to soften harsh contrasts and give a more refined, timeless look to the image.
Patterns and Subtle Prints: While bold or busy patterns can distract from the subject, more subtle patterns or textures (like fine stripes or small checks) can add dimension without being overwhelming. Small patterns tend to work better than large ones, which can be too dominant in the high-contrast nature of a tintype.
Natural Fibers: Fabrics made from natural fibers, such as cotton, linen, and wool, often produce more pleasing results. These materials have a depth and warmth that synthetic fabrics sometimes lack, creating a more authentic and classic appearance in tintype photography.