“I choose to create tintypes because they embody a unique blend of artistry and authenticity. Each plate carries the mark of its handmade process and the rich history it represents. Our era is dominated by the digital image, the tangible nature of tintypes allows us to marvel at the wonder of image making from the 1850s while giving us a precious, handheld artifact to be treasured for the ages.”
– David Lamanno
Hello! I’m David, a passionate tintype photographer with over 25 years of experience behind the lens. I love capturing the beauty of life through my antique view cameras. In 2010, I dove into the enchanting world of the wet collodion photography and have been creating tintype portraits in the piedmont and mountain regions of North Carolina ever since.
Aside from photography, I’m also a State of North Carolina certified librarian, which feeds my love for stories (using images rather than words) and research into historical photographic processes. Plus, I enjoy making music, which adds another layer of creativity to my life. I particularly relish photographing other musicians. What makes my photography experience special? I bring my mobile darkroom right to you! Whether you prefer a cozy spot in a favorite park, or on your front porch, I am able to develop beautiful tintypes right on site, making the experience as memorable as the images we create together.
The Process
Introduced in 1851 by Frederick Scott Archer, the wet-plate process begins when collodion (nitrated cotton, ether, alcohol, etc.) is flowed onto metal (tintype) or glass (ambrotype) and then sensitized in silver nitrate. While still wet, the plate is loaded into a large format view camera, an exposure is made and then taken into a darkroom for development. The plate is fixed in a solution to prevent any further sensitivity to light. Once dry, the plate is then varnished for protection. The “imperfections” found in each plate are indicative of this hand-crafted process and ensures that no two images are the same. Once a plate is flowed, the sitter can see their final image in about 10-minutes time. It’s like a Victorian Era polaroid! Because the plates need to dry before varnishing, I will complete that part of the process at a later time and mail them back within a week. I’ll provide scans of your plates within three days.
Connect with me now to schedule a session or if you have any questions about the process.
Two 4 x 5 inch tintypes
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One 5 x 7 inch tintype
Two 4 x 5 inch tintypes
One 6.5 x 8.5 inch tintype
Two 5 x 7 inch tintypes
A digital scan of images made during a session is included in the price, as well as sales tax. Prices are for Rowan County residents or if we meet somewhere within the county. If I travel to Davie, Davidson, Stanly, Cabarrus, or Iredell counties, add $25 travel fee. All others, contact me for price.