"Whole plate" is a photographic measurement equal to 6½ by 8½ inches. Since most tintypes were made to be portable and durable, these larger size images are less commonly found. Most of the tintypes made between the 1850s and 1890s were 2½ by 4 inches or smaller.

The image of the young married couple is highly representative of the slow exposure times associated with studio photography in the mid- to late-1800s. Notice the blank stares; each spouse stares coldly in a different direction. They may be madly in love with one another, but in order to hold the same pose for thirty seconds or so, they cannot attempt smiles or lean creatively.