The tintype portraits by Michael Shingler use a photographic method called wet-plate collodion process. This art process was invented in the 1850s, and Shingler has spent the last six years learning about the technique of using metal plates to produce the pictures.
In 2011, Shingler opened up a tintype portrait studio called Photobooth. This is the world's only tintype portrait studio, and it is the first studio of its kind since the 1930s. Each image that is produced is made upon a 4" by 5" aluminum plate, and take twenty minutes to complete from start to finish.
Since the opening of Photobooth, it has been visited by almost 3,500 people. Shingler's store and photographs are one-of-a-kind, and they have received plenty of attention and admiration over the past year.
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Wet-plate Collodion Process
- Opportunity to revive and innovate photography techniques from the 1850s.
- Tintype Portraits
- Disruptive potential in the photography industry by offering unique and vintage-inspired portrait experiences.
- Metal Plate Photography
- Unlocking new possibilities in image creation and processing using aluminum plates.
Where This Applies
- Photography
- Opportunity for photographers to explore alternative processing methods for creating distinct and timeless images.
- Art and Design
- Incorporating vintage photography techniques into artistic practices to create visually captivating and nostalgic works.
- Retail and Entertainment
- Creating a new trend in the market by offering customers a one-of-a-kind photography experience through tintype portraits.
