DC Rambow Wet Plate Photography studio

12/05/2025

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1AHNJDi3NN/

08/29/2025

10/01/2024

The tintype portrait of an unknown young woman, likely taken in the 1870s, represents a fascinating piece of photographic history. Tintypes were a popular form of portraiture during the mid-19th century, especially for the working and middle classes. Unlike the earlier daguerreotypes, tintypes were much more affordable and accessible to the general public. The process involved creating a direct positive on a thin sheet of iron, coated with a black or dark lacquer, and using chemicals to develop the image. This technique was quicker and cheaper, making it a staple in photography studios and at fairs across America and Europe.

The young woman in this portrait, though unnamed, carries with her the distinct characteristics of Victorian-era fashion and modesty. Women of the 1870s would typically dress in conservative clothing, and the popularity of tightly cinched waists, high necklines, and elaborate hairstyles defined their appearance. Her gaze, likely serious and unsmiling, was common for photographic subjects of the time. Early photography required long exposure times, making it difficult to hold a smile, but it was also a reflection of the solemnity with which people approached having their likeness captured. To many, photographs were rare and valuable family treasures that might be handed down through generations.

The 1870s marked a transitional period in photography, with the growing popularity of tintypes paralleled by advancements in photography technology, including faster exposure times and sharper detail. Tintypes were portable, durable, and often used to commemorate important life moments, such as weddings, graduations, or coming-of-age portraits. This woman, though anonymous, was likely commemorating a personal milestone or simply participating in the growing trend of portrait photography, capturing a moment of her youth during a time of significant cultural and technological change.

05/15/2024

05/15/2024

I'll be there, MAKING TINTYPES AND AMBROTYPES - rain or shine!

04/25/2024

Civil War traveling photographers: Prop weapons, coached poses and lots of government red tape.

How Civil War camp photographers got started, details of the studies and prop weapons, and other information about Union and Confederate photographers.

09/21/2023

Have you ever wanted to have your tin type photo taken? 📸

We're excited to have H. H. Bennett Studio on site this Saturday and Sunday our Civil War Remembered Weekend! Find the studio at our Law Office to watch the fascinating process of capturing and developing a tin type, and perhaps even take home a truly unique memento!

Get Civil War Remembered tickets now and explore the weekend's schedule of events: https://www.manitowoccountyhistory.org/programs/civil-war

Civil War Remembered is made possible by Bank First, Sabbatical Brewing Co., and Seehafer Broadcasting.

11/14/2022

Stories abound of dead people being propped up on stands to seem alive. The reality was different.