In this two-day workshop, we will explore the process of tintype photography, one of the earliest and most archival photographic methods. Rooted in the wet-collodion process, tintypes capture images directly onto enameled metal plates, producing striking, one-of-a-kind images. Dating back to 1851, this process combines artistry with light and chemistry to create photographic alchemy.

Want to learn how to prepare your own tintype chemistry from scratch so you’ll be prepared to start your own practice at home? This is the workshop for you. We will start the first day by mixing all the chemistry used in the process from elemental materials: salted collodion, silver bath, developer, fixer, and varnish. Through step-by-step demonstrations and guided hands-on practice, you’ll learn the technical aspects of the process, from coating and sensitizing metal plates to exposing them in a view camera, developing and fixing them in the darkroom using traditional chemistry, and finally varnishing your final images.

You’ll leave with your handmade tintypes after getting an overview of the entire workflow :

• Demonstrations of the process
• Insight into the chemistry and equipment involved
• Hands-on practice creating your own tintypes

This workshop is for anyone interested in historical photographic processes, alternative photography techniques, or anyone looking to expand their artistic practice. No previous experience is required. All equipment and materials will be provided. Parental consent required for children under 18 (minimum age is 15).

Instructor: Harlan Campbell
Date: June 21 + 22, 10am-4pm
Maximum capacity: 4
Minimum capacity: 2
Cost: $600 plus $100 lab fee (includes all plates and chemicals, use of specialty equipment, and finishing materials)