FAQs

Thank you for your interest in the Penumbra Tintype Studio.

Below are a few things about the studio and process that are good to know before your session.

Images © Sam Dole, Penumbra Foundation

WHAT IS A TINTYPE?

Considered by many to be the Polaroid of the 19th century, the tintype is made almost instantaneously through a process that uses hand-poured chemicals on an enameled sheet of metal. Tintypes, often found today in near original condition, were passed down as family heirlooms and valued for their time-tested archival stability.

WHERE IS THE STUDIO LOCATED?

We are conveniently located in the heart of midtown Manhattan (36 East 30th Street).

WHAT SHOULD I WEAR? HERE ARE SOME TIPS:

  • High contrast is best.

  • Blues appear light, reds show up dark.

  • Avoid UV-blocking makeup/sunscreen. This will make your skin look unusually darker than normal.

  • Patterns/textures work well. We do not recommend text or graphics since they show up in reverse.

  • Bring props or costumes!

HOW LONG WILL MY SESSION TAKE?

  • 1 hour total. The actual process takes 25-30 minutes per tintype. We allow some wiggle room in case a re-do is needed.

WHEN WILL MY PLATE BE READY?

  • Same-day pickup is possible, but requires waiting for drying and varnishing.

  • Otherwise, plates can be picked up the next business day.

  • Plates not picked up within 30 business days will be discarded.

WHAT’S INCLUDED?

  • One tintype per session (additional plates can be purchased).

  • A digital, retouched scan of your tintype (opt in or out during checkout).

  • Retakes are at the photographer's discretion, and only for clear errors (e.g., closed eyes, physical damage to the plate).

HOW MANY PEOPLE CAN BE PHOTOGRAPHED?

  • 1-5 people can be photographed on an 8x10 plate. We use period authentic lenses with a very shallow depth of field so the more people on the tintype the harder it is to make sure everyone will be sharp.

CAN I DUPLICATE THE PLATE?

  • Tintypes are unique. Direct duplication is not possible.

  • Multiple plates can be made of the same image, with slight variations.

  • High-resolution scans are available for prints.

WHAT ABOUT CHILDREN OR PETS?

  • Both are welcome! Please provide advance notice so that we are prepared.

WHEN WILL I RECEIVE MY SCANS?

  • Retouched scans will be delivered via WeTransfer within 7 business days.

DO GIFT CARDS EXPIRE

  • Gift cards expire 365 days from the purchase date.