Tintype Portraits

I combine my interests in portraiture and the wet plate collodion process for distinct, meaningful reasons. This photographic process forces me to slow down, demanding time and requiring patience. It allows me to encourage a collaborative attitude amongst the sitter and myself. As an image-maker using this process, I simply cannot "steal" or "grab" a shot. I love this significance and it continues to be a reason I am drawn to making tintype portraits. I view my results as very personal, enduring photographic objects. To me, the size and presence of this form of photographic object is an intimate memento. Living in a time of mass image capture, yet with questionable permanence and preservation, only heightens my need to make these portraits. These portraits are the results of my urge to look closely, my fascination with my subjects, and my desire to keep them (photographically) secure.