Pure Magic!
Step right up and behold the magic of transforming your ordinary photograph into a scrumdiddlyumptious authentic tintype! Watch as the chemistry dance and twirl, creating a masterpiece straight out of a world of pure imagination!
Modern Tintype Artistry is Here!
I take your 21st century digital image and turn it into an heirloom tintype using the same methods and chemicals as they did in the 1800’s. I think anything is possible!
Introducing Authentic Silver Tintypes from Your Digital Photographs - a truly unique and captivating fusion of vintage charm and modern technology! I’m taking your modern digital image from your iPhone, computer, thumb drive, or even existing print and applying techniques and chemistry from the 1800’s to create an authentic heirloom tintype!
I work to meticulously transform your digital photographs into stunning silver tintypes, harking back to the glory days of the 19th century. Each piece is painstakingly crafted using traditional wet-plate collodion techniques, ensuring an exquisite level of detail and a mesmerizing depth that cannot be replicated by digital prints.
The process begins by carefully selecting your favorite image, be it a portrait, landscape, or any moment that holds meaning to you. Then I work to create an authentic silver plate, capturing the rich tones and subtle nuances that lend an ethereal quality to your photograph. There will be natural chemistry marks and characteristics on each tintype! This process is what gives each piece that ‘vintage’ look.
Depending on the resolution/size of your image, I will need to assess the best possible size option if the original image is too small.
*Photos that do not have a high enough resolution or that show severe damage/aging may involve a different editing process and will need special touches. This requires extra time and expertise and a flat $40.00 extra charge for editing and restoration. I will let you know in advance if this is something necessary before I proceed with the project. Most of the time I’m able to work with your existing image without special applications needed.
Pick your favorite photo(s). If you can’t decide, you can send several and I can choose what might work best. Please send the original color file and don’t edit/process the image. The higher the resolution the better, so send the biggest version you have! Bolder subjects with simple backgrounds work best with good focus. If you have a physical print only, I can work with that as well. Please email your images to: rie@eyeofrie.com
Choose the size you want! 4x5, 5x7 or 8x10
Give me about 2 weeks to process your digital image, do some 1800’s magic, varnish, cure and wrap up your shiny new tintype! These are archival and will last 100’s of years.
I am also able to transform many images into small jewelry pieces! If you have an image and would like further information, please contact me and I’d be delighted to create a bespoke piece for you!
CARING FOR AND DISPLAYING YOUR TINTYPE:
Display your tintype under a bright light source for best viewing results. I recommend propping them up under a lamp.
When fingerprints show, use some distilled water and wipe dry with a soft cloth. Don't use windex or other chemical cleaners.
Tintypes are varnished with a natural substance called Lavender Sandarac. The longevity is outstanding, but not as hardcore as a poly.
If you choose to frame your tintype, make certain there is an air gap between the glass and the plate. If the plate touches the glass, given changes in humidity and temperature, over time the varnish will adhere to the glass.
I recommend shadowboxes or frames without glass. Mount it 1/4 inch away from the back of the shadowbox for a cool 3D effect.
Tintypes are glossy, so is glass, so you will get a double the glare with glass.
*Due to the nature of variables in photographs and chemistry, images may have various edges and/or natural chemical flaws. This adds to the uniqueness and beauty! Sizing may need to be adjusted depending on resolution.