Hama Hama Oyster Co. Tintype Pop-up: June 27, 2025

On Friday, June 27th, 2025 I will be popping up my tintype darkroom outside at the Hama Hama Oyster Company in Lilliwaup, Washington!

Tintype is a photographic process invented in the 1860’s which involves the photographer (that’s me, Ashley!) coating an aluminum plate in chemicals, sensitizing that plate to light in a silver bath, and then photographing the subject with that still-wet plate before it dries. I then take the plate back into my little portable darkroom and process the image on the spot! This is the most special way to have your photograph made, and the experience of observing a historical process is part of the fun. And, your tintype will last 200-300 years… a true heirloom for your family.

My intention is, weather depending, to set up the camera out on the grounds and to make beautiful, natural light portraits. If it is sunny, we will set up a backdrop in a covered area for classic, simple portraits. The exposure times will likely be between 5-8 seconds. f you have kids or dogs you’ll want to include, consider whether they’ll be able to sit still for this long: it’s hard for the really little ones and creatures not to wiggle (which is why victorian photographs rarely include sharp children or animals!) I’ll likely be able to accommodate families of up to 5 people in each photograph.

If the weather is rainy, I may have to cancel the event and issue refunds! My process relies on a strong UV factor and dry weather.

Pricing below includes one 5x7 inch tintype, but you’re welcome to choose to “upgrade” your tintype to a larger size by selecting one of the upgrade options. The 5x7 aspect ratio is ideal for singles and doubles (although we can make a horizontal plate to accommodate more people), and the 8x10 tintype aspect ratio is suited for singles, doubles, and small groups/families. Your appointment will last about 20 minutes! If you would like to upgrade to an 8x10 inch tintype, you may either pay up front by selecting the “add-ons” below, or plan to upgrade the day of your appointment with cash, venmo or paypal. Your cost includes shipping, so be sure to provide your mailing address when checking out.

Please note: you will be able to watch the tintype develop and take photos, but you won’t take your tintype home the day of the pop-up. It will need to wash and be scanned (a scan is included in the cost!) and varnished. it usually takes 1-2 weeks for tintypes to be mailed out.

Please also note: due to limited appointments, my ability to reschedule appointments becomes limited as the spots fill. Please be sure you can make it to the appointment you choose, as I can’t offer rescheduling options for future popup dates.