What is a tintype?

Tintypes are an old form of photography that were developed in the United States in 1856. Tintypes became popular during that era due to it being an inexpensive alternative to other old time processes. It was a common form of photography in the US until the 1930s. The process is wet plate collodion photography that involves coating a thin piece of metal or glass (today we use black aluminum) with light-sensitive chemistry called collodion to create an image, typically a portrait against a solid background. Tintype exposures are slow compared to modern camera photography, so preparation and processing take time. After a 1 second exposure using an intense strobe, the combination of chemistry, technique, and patience, produces an image that has a sharpness of details and a breadth in shading that are uncommon in other types of photographic images. After you have your tintype taken, you will be left with a completely original, one-of-a-kind image that can never be duplicated or copied. Tintypes are permanent and are an object that will last you a lifetime, an heirloom to pass on to another time.

What is your pricing?

Sessions at the Taos Tintype Studio begin at $150. This includes one 4inx5in tintype, a high resolution digital scan of your tintype and shipping cost.

What should I wear?

We photograph your tintype using either a white or black backdrop. Anything with a pattern or texture on it shows up the best in tintypes, so definitely keep that in mind when deciding what to wear. This process translates colors differently, so some things to note are that blues/cooler colors come out lighter, closer to white and reds/warmer colors come out dark, closer to looking black. The portrait will be from the shoulders/chest up unless we have discuss another pose.

How long is a session?

Each session is approximately 30 minutes depending on how many tintypes you would like to make.

Can I take more than one?

Of course! This can be decided beforehand or during the time of your appointment. Any tintype made after the first one is offered at a discounted rate of $100

What if I don’t like my tintype?

This is a naturally unpredictable and imperfect process, which is also what makes it so unique and special! If you only want to take one tintype and you are unhappy with it aesthetically, we offer to re-shoot it for a $50 chemical fee during the time of your appointment. You will only receive one of the tintypes made - whichever one you like better! I will always reshoot free of charge for my own errors, blinks or chemical marks in the focal point of the image. 

When will I receive my tintype?

Your physical tintype will be mailed in 3-5 business days via USPS. Once the session is finished, your tintype will be digitally scanned and is then coated with a protective layer of varnish that makes it last a lifetime. 

How do I gift a tintype?

You may purchase a gift certificate through our shop. A physical one will be mailed to you. You may also contact us to purchase one.

Are you available for weddings, private events or pop-ups?

Yes! Please contact us via email to discuss booking and rates for weddings, private events or if you would like to host Taos Tintype as a pop-up.

Can you make a tintype of a photo that already exists?

Yes! If you have a digital photo that you cherish and would like to see transformed into a tintype, we can make that happen! This could be of anything - a special occasion such as wedding day photos, old family photos, a pet photo that you love, etc. If you are interested in this service, please send us an email. These will hold a different feel than an in-person tintype session, but this is a good option if you live far away or have a special image that you would not be able to re-create in a studio session.