
Handmade Photographic Heirlooms
Maurene Cooper in darkroom
Varnishing tintypes in the studio
The Vanity Tintype Studio
Vanity Tintype is a woman, owned and operated commercial tintype photography studio located in Philadelphia’s historic Fishtown neighborhood. We make tintypes in the studio and on location for engagements and weddings and as well as producing wedding activations. We also offer a timeless unique line of jewelry containing tintypes designed and fabricated in Philadelphia.
What is a Tintype….Technically Speaking
What is a Tintype? Tintype belongs to a family of techniques called the "wet plate process" popular from 1840-1900, the most popular image making technology of the 19th century. In short, a tintype is produced on location with, a large format camera, a travel darkroom, rare chemicals and silver to yield a positive analogue photograph on a piece of metal.
Our image making process is, thoughtful, considered and unique to each client. We offer a range of packages that are reflective of the time and commitment we take with our clients. Vanity Tintype’s portrait scissions blend 19th technology and contemporary life for an unforgettable collaborative experience.
The resulting image is a one-of-a-kind modern heirloom.