Tintype Photobooth at the Western Welcome in Castle Rock 2025
A Vintage Photo Experience During the Douglas County Fair
The Western Welcome in Castle Rock is one of Douglas County’s most anticipated celebrations, marking the kickoff of the Douglas County Fair with a rich blend of western heritage, community pride, and unforgettable experiences. For the second year in a row, my handcrafted tintype photobooth was part of the festivities—offering guests a truly unique photo event memory rooted in history.
Seeing familiar faces return from last year was one of the highlights of the event. Guests arrived excited, dressed up, and ready to create another one-of-a-kind portrait, proving that a vintage experience like tintype photography leaves a lasting impression long after the fairgrounds close.
Rocky Mountain Indigenous Dancers & Cultural Celebration
One of the most powerful moments of the day came from the Rocky Mountain Indigenous Dancers, who performed on the main stage and later visited the tintype photobooth for portraits. Their regalia, movement, and presence translated beautifully into the timeless medium of tintype photography.
Their participation added cultural depth and authenticity to the Western Welcome, making the experience even more meaningful for attendees. You can learn more about their work and performances by visiting their official website: Rocky Mountain Indigenous Dancers.
Outdoor Tintype Photography: Challenges & Craftsmanship
Hosting an outdoor photobooth always comes with its own set of challenges. This year brought a bit of rain and occasional wind, requiring constant adjustments and a careful balance of timing, chemistry, and equipment. Tintype photography is a fully hands-on, handcrafted process—there are no shortcuts.
Despite the weather, the results truly spoke for themselves. Each finished tintype plate became a tangible piece of history, proving that even under unpredictable conditions, a vintage experience can shine when craftsmanship and intention are at the forefront.
More Than a Photobooth: A Full Western Welcome Experience
The Western Welcome is much more than portraits. The celebration includes the iconic Western Welcome Cattle Drive Parade through downtown Castle Rock, where longhorn cattle, horses, wagons, and western-clad participants transform the streets into a living piece of Colorado history.
Additional events throughout the day include live music, food vendors, family-friendly activities, historical demonstrations, and community gatherings that make this one of the most engaging and authentic western events in the region.
Why Tintype Photography Elevates Historic & Western Events
For event planners, corporate event designers, and historic venues, a tintype photobooth offers more than entertainment—it creates unique customer engagement. Guests don’t just take a photo; they witness the process, connect with the history, and leave with a handcrafted keepsake that can’t be replicated digitally.
This kind of fun photo experience is ideal for western celebrations, heritage festivals, brand activations, and venues looking to elevate their event with something meaningful, memorable, and visually striking.
See You Next Year at Western Welcome
Being part of the Western Welcome for a second year was an honor, and I’m grateful to everyone who stopped by—whether it was your first tintype or a return visit. The excitement, creativity, and community spirit are what make this event truly special.
If you missed us this year, be sure to come visit next year and experience tintype photography for yourself. It’s more than a photograph—it’s a lasting piece of your story.
