Wet plate collodion photography is making positive images on metal plates; they're also known as tin types. Negatives can also be made on glass plates. This was the way photographs were made during the Civil War. To obtain the look, feel, and authenticity for my photo essay book on Civil War Reenactors, "An Illusion So Real," I learned the process, had equipment built, and found period lenses. I fell in love with this demanding and beautiful process, with its rich tones, great detail and timeless look. My subjects include both reenactors and modern day images.