Experience the Beauty of Tintype Photography with Blake — Nashville Photographer Based in Franklin, TN
In today's digital age, the appeal of a tangible and enduring photograph is stronger than ever. That's where tintype photography comes in — offering a tactile experience that captures the essence of its subject with organic imperfections and one-of-a-kind qualities.
As a Nashville-based photographer, I specialize in the Wet Plate Collodion photographic process, known for creating traditional tintype and artistic ambrotype portraits. Working primarily from my home studio in Franklin, TN, I offer an immersive photography experience that allows clients to see and be a part of the entire process, from pouring the plate to watching the image develop before their eyes.
Before I immersed myself in historical photography, I spent over a decade performing live, unscripted comedy with Nashville-based groups like Music City Improv and Improv Nashville.
Those years on stage honed my ability to observe, adapt, and connect — skills that seamlessly translate into my photographic practice. The spontaneity and authenticity required in improv are mirrored in the tintype process, where each moment is unique and unrepeatable. There’s a shared thread between improvising on stage and working with a wet plate: both are messy, unpredictable, and a little magical when they click.
From the moment you step into my studio, you'll witness the preparation and creation of your tintype portrait firsthand. I personally guide every session — from the collodion and silver nitrate prep to exposure, development, and varnishing — so that each image feels intentional and timeless.
Whether you're looking for a classic portrait or a unique artistic creation, I create beautiful and enduring tintype photographs that you'll treasure for years to come. I shoot 8x10, 6.5x8.5 (whole plate), and 5x7 size portraits in natural light or controlled studio settings, providing a personalized experience for each client.
While my work is rooted in 19th-century techniques, I’m also exploring the creation of Daguerreotypes — another historic photographic process I look forward to offering in the near future.
I primarily work out of my studio in Franklin, TN, but I’m available for on-location tintype sessions in Nashville and throughout Middle Tennessee — bringing the beauty and uniqueness of handcrafted photography directly to you.
In addition to my work as a photographer, I’m a technologist by profession. This dual engagement in both technology and art allows me to blend precision with creativity, giving me a unique perspective behind the camera.