TINTYPES

at Greeley Hat Works

August 28th • 5:00-7:00pm • During Showroom Sessions

Join us for a pop-up portrait studio session using the 19th-century wet-plate collodion process to create one-of-a-kind tintypes.

Each image is made with hand-poured chemistry and developed on site. In an age of artificial intelligence and endless digital filters, these portraits offer something rare: a truly representational image made through direct presence, not manipulation.

The process is slow, imperfect, and beautifully human.

Meet the Photographer

Hi! I’m Stephanie, Greeley native and photographer. I’m excited to be working with Greeley Hat Works to create portraits that celebrate western tradition and two iconic art forms—hat making and tintypes.

If you’ve got a great hat and a few minutes to sit still, I’ll make you a one-of-a-kind tintype the old-fashioned way—on metal, by hand, at the Greeley Hat Works studio.

Book an appointment.

Reserve your spot for a one-of-a-kind tintype portrait session. Space is limited and sessions fill quickly, so book early to guarantee your place. All portraits are made on site using the wet-plate collodion process—no filters, just one beautifully real image.

Unable to attend? Reach out to book a private appointment

$25

Digital Copy

High-resolution scans of your tintype are available for purchase for $25. Each scan preserves the detail and texture of the original plate and will be delivered via email within 3 business days, perfect for sharing or archiving.

$60

Capture & Take Home

Each session includes the creation of two 4x5 tintype portraits using the historic wet-plate process. You will review both plates and choose one of your favorites to take home.

A high-resolution digital scan of your selected portrait is also included, giving you a timeless keepsake in both physical & digital form.

FAQs

  • A tintype is a one-of-a-kind photograph made using a 19th-century wet-plate collodion process. The image is created on a metal plate, not paper, and developed by hand on site.

  • Each session lasts about 10-15 minutes, which includes posing, exposure, and developing your image in the darkroom. You’ll see your photo appear right away.

  • Yes! The image is made on a blackened aluminum plate, coated with hand-poured chemistry. It’s not a print or filter—it’s a physical object created through a chemical process.

  • Yes. For $60 you will receive one finished 4x5 tintype and a digital scan. If your session includes multiple exposures, you’ll choose your favorite to take home. The other is kept for the artist & documentation.

  • Yes. A high-resolution scan of your tintype is $25 with your session. It will be emailed to you within a 48 hours.

  • Natural fabrics, darker tones, and simple patterns tend to photograph best. Avoid bright white or neon colors. The process is sensitive to UV and contrast, so black clothing can look especially dramatic.

  • Yes! Tintypes can include multiple people, though the frame is small (4x5 inches) so there is a max of 2 people. Contact me for custom group requests.

  • Yes, but children must be able to stay very still. Because of the long exposure time, this process is best suited for ages 6 and up.

  • Your tintype needs time to dry and varnish. You’ll pick up your final plate the Monday after the event from noon-2pm. If you're visiting from out of town, shipping options are available.

  • Appointments are strongly recommended, as each plate takes time. Walk-ins are welcome if there is availability, but may be subject to wait times.

  • If a plate fails for technical reasons, I’ll remake it. If it’s a matter of preference, you may purchase additional plates or schedule a private appointment.

  • Yes! I’m available for private sittings, events, and creative collaborations. Use the contact form to inquire about rates and availability.

  • Yes. Tintypes are handmade using historical chemistry, and each plate carries unique artifacts—streaks, swirls, or specks, that are part of the process. These imperfections are what make tintypes one-of-a-kind.

    If you notice something that truly distracts from the image, please let us know before we finish the session. We’re happy to reshoot at no cost in those cases.

  • Absolutely. The digital scan included with your tintype is high-quality and perfect for small prints, postcards, or e-cards. You're welcome to use it for personal projects like announcements, invites, or seasonal greetings.