Stepping into History: Lexington Artist Revives Vintage Tintype Photography
In the heart of downtown Lexington, Mark Cornelison is capturing more than just images – he’s preserving legacies. His studio, Cornelison Tintypes, transports visitors back to the 1850s, offering a glimpse into the magic of tintype photography.
"It’s known as the most honest picture you will ever take because we are not hiding anything," Cornelison explains.
There are no filters, no Photoshop, just the raw beauty of a one-of-a-kind image where imperfections are almost always encouraged.
"People seem to be a little disappointed if they get too perfect of a plate," Cornelison shares, emphasizing the charm found in the unique characteristics of each tintype.
Cornelison brings over 30 years of photographic experience to his craft. He spent 25 years as a photojournalist for the Herald-Leader and is currently the Chief Photographer at the University of Kentucky. His diverse portfolio encompasses everything from musicians to athletes, showcasing his talent for capturing the essence of his subjects.
But the first photo he ever captured with his vintage lens holds a special significance: his 8-year-old daughter, Elsie.
"I jokingly tell her I want her to be the first person photographed on these old cameras so that when I am gone, she won’t just sell them at a yard sale," he said.
Tintype photography, a process dating back to the 1850s, creates photos directly onto polished metal plates coated with a layer of silver. Each plate undergoes a meticulous process: sitting in silver nitrate, loading into a cartridge under red light, being exposed in the camera, then sprayed with a developing chemical and water under red light once more.
The result? Remarkable images that surpass the test of time, lasting for over 175 years. Cornelison envisions these plates becoming treasured heirlooms, found nestled amidst family keepsakes generations later.
"I have this vision of somebody opening up grandma’s trunk finding an old UK t-shirt, and then finding a big metal plate of Great Grandma Elsie, or whoever, you know,” he muses.
It’s not just about capturing a fleeting moment; it’s about weaving memories into history, creating tangible links to the past. Bringing the artistry of tintype photography to modern Lexington, Cornelison invites everyone to step back in time and experience the unique allure of this timeless art form.
His studio, Cornelison Tintypes, is located at 522 WestShort Street in downtown Lexington. To learn more: click here.
What is the appeal of tintype photography, and how does it differ from modern digital photography?
## A Blast From the Past: Tintype Photography Thrives in Lexington
**Host:** Welcome back to our show! Today we have a very special guest, Mark Cornelison, owner and artist of Cornelison Tintypes, right here in downtown Lexington. Mark, welcome!
**Mark:** Thank you for having me.
**Host:** Mark, you’re reviving a truly unique photographic artform with tintypes. Can you tell our viewers a little bit about what makes tintypes so special?
**Mark:** Absolutely. Tintype photography dates back to the 1850s, offering a direct, unfiltered connection to the past. What you see in a tintype is truly what was captured – no Photoshop, no editing. It’s considered the most “honest” picture, embracing imperfections and making each plate truly unique.
**Host:** That’s fascinating! You mentioned imperfections being celebrated. How do people react when they see their tintype portraits?
**Mark:** They’re often surprised and delighted by their imperfections!
People actually seem disappointed if their image is too perfect. The unique characteristics, like slight blurs or blemishes, add to the charm and historical feel.
**Host:** That’s such a different perspective from our digitally curated world. You bring over 30 years of photography experience to this art. How did your background as a photojournalist for the Herald-Leader and your current role as Chief Photographer at the University of Kentucky lead you to tintype photography?
**Mark:** My years as a photojournalist taught me the importance of capturing the essence of a moment, and tintype photography takes that to another level. It’s about preserving a story in a tangible, timeless way.
**Host:** Well said, Mark. For anyone interested in experiencing this unique photographic journey, how can they find you?
**Mark:** My studio, Cornelison Tintypes, is located in the heart of downtown Lexington. You can find us online or simply drop by for a visit. We’d love to share the magic of tintype photography with you.
**Host:** Fantastic! Mark, thank you so much for sharing your passion and artistry with us today.
**Mark:** Thanks for having me.
