Tintype Portraits in Sydney
Authentic 19th-century photography, handcrafted on metal plates
Tintype Sunday, July 12This is not a digital photography
No flash drives. No film. No files.
A tintype is a photograph made entirely by hand on a metal plate using light and chemistry — exactly as it was in the 19th century.
Photographed with an original early 20th-century camera. Developed and fixed right in front of you — the image appears like alchemyNo editing, no corrections — only light and silver chemistry
Each tintype is absolutely unique and impossible to replicate.
The Process
A silver-coated plate is prepared by hand.The lens of a century-old camera opens — and your image is etched into the surface by pure light.
The plate is then developed immediately, in front of your eyes.Within seconds, the image slowly appears on metal.
Each tintype is a one-of-a-kind physical object — imperfect, honest, and timeless.
Choose your experience:
Tintype Sunday
Pop-up event · Limited spots
- 1 plate 4×5 (10×13cm)
- Delivery by post
- Option to create additional plate
Event date: July 12
Duration: 30 minutes
199 AUD
Classic Portrait 4×5
Explore different poses, expressions and ideas
- Includes 3 plates 4×5 (10×13cm)
- Additional plates available
- Gift packaging
- Delivery by post
- Short behind-the-scenes video
Duration: 90 minutes
299 AUD
Large Format Portrait 5×7
A museum-style portrait with greater detail and presence
- Includes 1 large-format plate 5×7 (13×18cm)
- Additional large-format plates available
- Gift packaging
- Delivery by post
- Short behind-the-scenes video
Duration: 60-90 minutes
299 AUD
Hands-On Tintype Session
Mini workshop
Pose for a 4×5 tintype, then make your own! This hands-on workshop includes 3 metal plates. Pour, shoot, and develop your own tintypes using authentic 1850s gear and chemistry.
Duration: 90 minutes
Price: 399 AUD
Frequently Asked Questions
Can we do a couple or family portrait?
Yes. Couples, friends, and small families are welcome.
The price is based on the number of plates, not the number of people.
However, everyone must be able to remain still for about 4 seconds — even small movements soften details on the final plate.
What should I wear?
Textures and rich fabrics look beautiful: lace, velvet, embroidery.
Avoid large text or logos — they appear reversed on tintype.
Avoid UV-blocking makeup or sunscreen — they may darken the skin on the plate
Can I add more plates?
During a Private Session, you can request up to 2 additional plates.
During Tintype Sunday, you can request 1 additional plate.
- 4×5” — 50 AUD
- 5×7” — 75 AUD
Can I bring children or pets?
Yes — if they can stay completely still for about 4 seconds.
Blinking is fine, but movement can blur the image.
Clear results cannot be guaranteed if stillness is difficult — but you’re welcome to try.
Can I request a retake?
Retakes are only offered in case of technical issues:
- accidental blinking,
- damaged plate,
- major focus or exposure error.
Tintype celebrates truth, texture, and imperfection — this is what makes it timeless
Is parking available?
Yes — feel free to park in my driveway
Can I cancel or reschedule my session?
Rescheduling is usually possible if you notify me at least 48 hours in advance.
If something important happens less than 48 hours before your session, please reach out — we will find a solution.
For full details, please refer to the cancellation and refund policy here
Tintype for weddings & events
I also offer on-location tintype photography for weddings and special events as a dedicated tintype photo-zone.
If you’re interested in having tintype at your event, please get in touch below.
Tintype is slow.
It requires patience, presence, and trust in the process.But what you receive is something rare:a physical object that will still exist long after files, feeds, and formats disappear.
Location
My private studio is located in North Ryde. 171 Lane Cove Rd
A Note About Lighting
This session uses powerful studio flashes required for the tintype process.
They are generally safe and commonly used in professional photography.However, please consult your doctor before booking if you have:
- photosensitive epilepsy,
- migraine-related light sensitivity,
- recent eye surgery.
Your wellbeing comes first.