Wet Plate collodion session using my mobile darkroom. The darkroom allows me to do portrait sessions throughout Wisconsin and Upper Michigan. This session was on a state trail near Neenah. Just capturing some 8×10 inch landscape tintypes for sale on my Etsy site

Here is a nice picture of my Intrepid 8×10 inch large format camera. Intrepid is a UK based company that manufactures large format cameras and accessories. I use vintage lenses – over 100 years old. But I opted to have a new camera built for my business. Nothing wrong with an old camera but I wanted to support someone building new cameras so that there would be more cameras in the future.

The most magical moment occurs when you fix and wash the plate. Here is a plate with the image emerging in the fix bath.

Then after a good wash I rack my plates in the sun to dry. I will varnish the plates when I get them home. I use a traditional varnish made from frankincense and lavender oil. It protests the image and smells wonderful!

I also use my mobile darkroom for location portrait sessions. Want to learn more? Check out my Contact Page where you can send me a message or book a session.

You can also see my Collodion Portrait FAQ for more information

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