Studio Tintypes

As you can no doubt see, a Tintype is a hand-coated and hand-made image that has some unique characteristics. Each image is completely different - the process results in charismatic swirls and patterns within the image, unique and imperfect edges, and often dust spots and blemishes. These are an integral part of the work, and we welcome them as part of what makes each image wonderfully special. Having said that, we can tidy up the images once they are digitised (the Tintype itself remains it's wonderful imperfect self for almost eternity) - so don't worry about little spots or scratches.

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Please Note :: this process involves a VERY bright exposure moment - but don't worry, it only lasts a fraction of a second...

Our tintype studio is equipped with specialised lighting to enable us to capture a portrait using studio lighting. This means that our exposure times are more predictable and makes for a wonderful and interesting experience for our subject.

We love working with you to come up with interesting ideas for a unique image, and not only do you sit for the portrait, but you get to see the whole process from start to finish in the darkroom.

You will walk away with not only a fabulous and unusual photographic object and image, but an experience that you will never forget.


We set up our studio on a regular basis, and you can contact us to enquire about our upcoming sessions.

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What you get ::

- The final Tintype image presented in a beautiful tin box (this can be framed later if you wish)

- a digital file emailed to you so that you also have an electronic version to share and enjoy

- the full Tintype experience; see how we create these images in large format camera and in our mobile darkroom

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Portraits on Location

SteampunkFestivalTintypes-53 - A Tintype made at the Adelaide Steampunk Festival 2019
SteampunkFestivalTintypes-64 - A Tintype made at the Adelaide Steampunk Festival 2019

When we take the caravan on the road, we can either take portraits on location, or we can set up our studio if the facilities are available. Either way, we are able to capture portraits in a variety of places with a range of styles. The location portraits can be a bit more challenging, as we are dealing with unpredictable lighting and weather - but this is part of the wonderful challenge of this medium and we love this part of it. The exposure times can be rather long, which means you may need to sit very still for some time. This is part of the experience and we welcome it - we may just need to make sure that your pose is rested and supported.

Keep an eye on our facebook page for updates on where we will be next, or contact us to lure us to your location or event.

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