A Beginner’s Guide to Cyanotype Printing
What is cyanotype?
Cyanotype is a photographic printing process that creates beautiful blue and white images. It uses a light sensitive solution that is applied to paper. You can then place objects, drawings or negatives onto the paper before exposing it to sunlight.
The areas exposed to the light turn a deep Prussian blue when the paper is washed in water. Anything covering the paper blocks the light, leaving behind a pale shape.
Leaves, flowers, feathers and other small objects work particularly well. You can also make your own designs or use photographic negatives if you want to create something more detailed.
A little bit of history
Cyanotype was invented in 1842 by English scientist and astronomer Sir John Herschel. The process was later used by botanist and artist Anna Atkins, who became known for her beautiful cyanotype images of plants and seaweed.
In 1843, Atkins began publishing Photographs of British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions. It is considered one of the earliest books to use photographs as illustrations.
A cyanotype photogram made by Atkins which was part of her 1843 book, Photographs of British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions - WikiPedia
Cyanotype for beginners
One of the great things about cyanotype printing is that you do not need lots of specialist equipment or any previous experience. It is easy to get started and there is plenty of room to experiment.
Try collecting a few interesting leaves or flowers and see what shapes they make on the paper. Move things around, try different arrangements and experiment with how long you expose your prints.
You will not always know exactly how a print is going to turn out, and that is part of the fun. Small changes in sunlight, objects and exposure time can all make a difference.
Cyanotype is a simple way to bring together photography, nature and making. All you really need is some sunshine, a few things to experiment with and a willingness to see what happens.
Try our workshop - Cyanotype and Nautral Plant Printing
