Porto in 1 Days - Hands-on wet plate collodion portrait session
In Collaboration with Alchemy Studio Porto. Updated on February 26, 2026.
A hands-on wet plate collodion portrait session at Alchemy Studio Porto led by photographer Nuno Marcelino. Witness the full 19th-century metal-plate photographic process and leave with a single, handcrafted metal portrait.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Alchemy Studio Porto, inspired by the tour 19th Century metal portrait an unique experience Porto-Portugal . Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Hands-on wet plate collodion portrait session
- Guided by photographer Nuno Marcelino
- Leave with one unique metal portrait
More than 38 itineraries in Porto.
Itinerary
Day 1
In-studio wet plate collodion portrait session at Alchemy Studio Porto. The session is a focused, step-by-step experience where participants observe and assist with the historical photographic process and receive one finished metal portrait.
Authentic 19th Century Photo Experience in Porto
Meet at Alchemy Studio Porto for a 90-minute wet plate collodion portrait session. The photographer demonstrates each stage — preparing the plate with collodion, sensitising, exposing, and developing the plate in the darkroom — and guides you through posing and the sitting. Each participant leaves with a single, handmade metal portrait.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive 10 minutes early to check in and complete any brief intake or consent; the process is time-sensitive and starts promptly.
- Wear solid, matte clothing (mid-tones or dark colors) and avoid small repeating patterns; simple, fitted layers help the photographer compose a classic portrait.
- Sessions involve chemistry and a darkroom environment; if you have mobility concerns or require seating, notify the studio in advance so they can accommodate you.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 3 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | - |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 1 |
| Total Places | 1 |
| Activities Types | Experience |
Why this experience
You're about to step into the darkroom of Alchemy Studio Porto and witness a photographic process that hasn't changed since the 1800s. Photographer Nuno Marcelino will walk you through the entire wet plate collodion method — mixing chemicals, sensitizing a metal plate, positioning you under an antique large-format camera, and developing your image before your eyes. By the end of two hours, you'll hold a one-of-a-kind metal portrait in your hands, a tangible artifact of a century-old craft.
This isn't a modern digital experience. It's tactile, chemical, and deeply human. You'll see the portrait emerge in the darkroom tray, watch light and chemistry transform metal into memory. It's perfect if you're curious about how photography really works, or if you want to take home something truly unique from Porto — a portrait that couldn't exist anywhere else.
Before you go
- Best time: Year-round. The darkroom environment means weather doesn't affect the experience.
- Budget: Check the booking widget for current tour pricing. The session includes all materials and the finished metal portrait.
- Difficulty: Easy. No prior photography knowledge needed; Nuno guides every step.
- What to bring: Comfortable clothes you don't mind getting chemistry on. The process is hands-on and occasionally messy.
- Getting there: Alchemy Studio Porto's address will be provided upon booking. Central Porto location; easily reached by tram or taxi.
- Accessibility: The studio has a single step at entry; contact Nuno directly if mobility is a concern.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need photography experience? No. Nuno teaches the entire process, from mixing chemicals to operating the large-format camera. You'll learn as you go, and he'll handle the technical adjustments.
Can I keep the metal portrait? Yes. The finished portrait is yours to take home. It's a unique, one-of-a-kind artifact that you've helped create.
How long does it really take? The session is approximately two hours from start to finish, including the darkroom development phase where you see your image emerge.
What's included in this itinerary? This itinerary on TheNextGuide is free to read and follow at your own pace. The bookable experience includes the two-hour workshop with Nuno, all wet plate collodion materials, chemical mixing, portrait session, darkroom development, and your finished metal portrait.
Complete your trip in Porto
Extend your Porto experience with these other hands-on and food-focused days.
- Traditional market, Portuguese lunch and wine (private couples day) — Explore Bolhão Market and taste the flavors that define Porto's food culture.
- Family cooking class: Portuguese cuisine on a terrace — Cook traditional dishes and lunch with a local chef on a Porto terrace.
- Full-day Douro Valley tour with two wineries, lunch, and boat cruise — Escape to wine country and the Douro River for a complete day experience.
Browse all Porto itineraries at TheNextGuide.
*Last updated: April 2026*
