Booking & FAQ
What types of events can I book you for?
Weddings, engagement sessions, private parties, local markets, conventions, musician promo shoots, you name it I will work with you to see if I can be there! Have a cool backyard, or even a front porch? I can make tintypes for you there as well.
What should I wear to my session?
I’m a big fan of textures and patterns. If you choose to wear black, mix it up with another layer like an undershirt, a flannel, or choose a black shirt that has texture like lace or puffy sleeves for an example. I also have a Pinterest board with tons of outfit inspriation, just reach out and ask for the link.
Yes! I am one of the 20 resident artist at The Temple located in the historic Five Points neighborhood in Denver, CO. You can book a session with me 24/7, I just ask for at least 24-hours notice. If you need something day of then please shoot me an email or a message on Instagram.
Please note: My studio at The Temple is located on the 3rd floor and there isn’t an elevator. If you or anyone in your party requires mobility assistance please reach out so we can coordinate. I am able to use another floor at The Temple or we can do a natural light session (weather permitting)
Do you have a private studio?
How do I take care of my new heirloom?
Once I varnish your plate your tintype or ambrotype is safe and sealed for at least the next 150 years. Nothing you need to do besides maybe frame and hang it on your wall to enjoy!
I currently offer two size options, 5x7 and 8x10 so any photo frame of these sizes will house your image just fine. If you would like frame recommendations I am happy to send you to my favorite person who basically makes frames that mimic gutta percha from the Victorian era.
Vintage frames are also a thrifting passion of mine, let’s chat if that’s your thing too and we’ll find you something really cool.
Absolutely! If it’s technical error on my part I will 100% pour another plate for you or issue a refund if we run out of time. I always plan for these situations in my time slots.
However, the wet plate collodion process isn’t for everyone, it will find and reveal every freckle and wrinkle on your face but that’s what makes it so special and unique. I always advise folks that wear makeup to avoid wearing “photo finish” makeup to your photo shoot as this process needs every little bit of UV light it can get and photo finish makeup blocks that out and will make your skin look a little flat.
If you ask for another image and it’s not a technical issue I charge a $25 re-pouring fee for tintytpes and $40 for ambrotypes to cover material costs. No refunds are issued but I am happy to give you a voucher for us to try again at another time.
I don’t like my photo, can we retake it?
The chemicals you use smell dangerous,
is there a concern for me once I touch it?
Not at all. The chemicals are dangerous for me to handle during our shoot but I clean them very well once the tintype goes into the rinse bath. When it gets varnished and passed off to you it will arrive smelling like lavender oil, which is an ingredient in the varnish recipe.
How can we reach you?
Please submit a request through the form below to if you’re looking for information on weddings, events, or if you just have something on your mind!
If you’d like to book a private studio session please visit the “Book a Session” page to schedule at your leisure.
You are also welcome to message me on Instagram.com/oldblackkettle but this form renders a quicker response.