What’s a tintype? Discover the magic of early photography at the Northport Historical Society

Tintype specialist Craig Murphy will give an overview of the history of photography with a focus on the tintype, a wet plate image created on metal. Photo courtesy Craig Murphy via the Northport Historical Society.
Once popular among Civil War soldiers, tintypes are an early form of photography in which a unique image is produced on a metal plate.
Also known as ferrotype, tintypes emerged in the 1850s as a new photographic process that created a direct positive image on a thin sheet of iron coated with a dark lacquer or enamel. Invented by Adolphe-Alexandre Martin in 1853, the process quickly gained popularity, especially during the American Civil War, because it was fast, inexpensive, and durable, ideal for soldiers wanting to send portraits home.
At a September 13 talk and demonstration at the Northport Historical Society, tintype specialist Craig Murphy will give an overview of the history of photography up to the tintype and dry plate era, followed by a full demonstration of the tintype process.
Although the use of tintypes declined by the early 20th century alongside the rise of more modern photographic techniques, tintype photography remains valued today for its historical significance and unique, handcrafted aesthetic.
The Northport Historical Society’s tintype photography talk and demonstration will take place on
Saturday, September 13 at 11am. Tickets are $25 ($20 for members) and can be purchased here.
Want your own tintype portrait? A quick look shows just a few remaining appointments for a tintype portrait session after the September 3 demonstration. For more information and to check availability, click here.
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