Ferrotype Plate

Ferrotype plates, also known as ferrotypes or tintypes, are a type of photographic plate used in the process of developing and finishing photographs. They are part of the supply class Photographic Developing And Finishing Equipment in the supply group Photographic Equipment.

Ferrotype plates are made of a thin sheet of iron or steel coated with a black lacquer or enamel. They were commonly used in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as a cheaper alternative to traditional photographic prints.

To create a ferrotype, a wet collodion emulsion is applied to the plate, which is then exposed to light to capture the image. The plate is then developed and fixed to create a permanent photograph. Ferrotype plates are known for their unique appearance, with a glossy, mirror-like surface and a slightly metallic sheen.

Ferrotype plates were popular for portrait photography, as they were durable and could be easily transported. They were often used in traveling studios or at outdoor events. However, with the advent of more modern photographic processes, such as film and digital photography, ferrotype plates have become less common.

In summary, ferrotype plates are a type of photographic plate used in the process of developing and finishing photographs. They have a unique appearance and were commonly used in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as a cheaper alternative to traditional prints.