The tintype process refers generally to the most prevalent method of producing a wet plate collodion image.

Although the process dates from the mid-19th century, it has been adapted to modern, readily- available materials. Most current wet plates are made on either glass or metal sheets cut to the specific size of the camera being used. The plate is coated with collodion and then sensitized and exposed–while still wet–in the camera. It is then developed, fixed and rinsed. The final step, to preserve the plate is varnishing it.

For this workshop, all the plates will be made on aluminum sheets which will be provided as will all the necessary chemistry and components. Some of the techniques involved are unique to wet plate like the coating and developing of the plate not to mention exposure times. They all take practice. This is an introductory, hands-on, workshop that assumes no prior experience in wet plate collodion photography. The hope is that each participant in this introduction will create at least one successful 4×5 plate. The path to achieving this goal will be through an initial discussion of the process looking at its origins and how it influenced ensuing photographic technologies and then hands-on practice. The Wet Plate Collodion Handbook, by Niles Lund will be the reference.

The first meeting will be an overview of the process and a description of what the student can expect moving forward. We will look at the materials and media that we will be using and basic principles.

The second day we will make a test plate and look at how to determine proper exposure and development times.

We will go step-by-step through:

• pouring collodion onto the plate,
• sensitizing it in the silver nitrate bath,
• making the exposure, and
• developing and fixing of the image.

All the steps are important and interdependent. Even with the best plan, results can be unpredictable. That is part of the fun, the uncertainty.

Each student will get a one-on-one tutorial pouring plates and guidance through the initial shoot.

As students get more familiar with the process they will be able to work together in pairs to create their own compositions. We can plan to make as many plates as time allows.

The third day, as time allows would be more hands-on working on finer points of lighting and composition. We will also discuss finishing options for the plates.

We look forward to seeing you there!