Tintype demonstration with Horst Herget

Kicking off the new year, the Alternative Process Social (APS) welcomed participants to an immersive Tintype demonstration led by Toronto-based wet plate photographer Horst Herget. Held on January 17th, 2023, at Daylight Studio, Horst transformed the space into an open-air darkroom, offering attendees a unique opportunity to witness the intricate process of creating wet plate tintypes from start to finish. Known for his expertise in alternative processes, Horst guided participants through each step, from coating the plates with collodion to the delicate development process in his portable darkroom setup.

The demonstration offered a hands-on look into the magic of wet plate photography, with participants observing the chemical reactions unfold as the image slowly materialized on the plate. Horst’s attention to detail and mastery of the tintype process, honed over more than a decade, captivated the audience, who were eager to ask questions and learn about the historical significance of this art form. The session was as much about the technical aspects as it was about the creative possibilities wet plate photography offers to modern-day artists.

With an open invitation to all, the January APS event continued its tradition of fostering a community of photographers passionate about alternative processes. The casual and welcoming atmosphere allowed for meaningful conversations and knowledge sharing, encouraging both newcomers and seasoned photographers to engage with this timeless photographic technique. As APS continues to host monthly gatherings, attendees look forward to further exploring the rich world of alternative processes together.