Making Cyanotypes

Cyanotypes are a fun and inexpensive way to create photographic prints. This can be done simply using objects or printing an inverted negative on acetate. For me, it was a way to spend extra time with my prints and understand their relation with light. The steps to creating a cyanotype are as follows:

• Mix a cyantype solution mixing the amount you need in equall amounts (the elements for this can be bought simply on amazon)

• Use a foam brush and coat the solution onto watercolour paper (as this can hold more liquid)

• Leave to dry in the dark (this takes approximately 30 minutes)

• Take outside and place the paper in sunlight with the acetate or objects on top

• Depending on the sun that day this can take anywhere from 5 minutes to 30 but you can judge this by seeing how the remaining paper changes colour

• Once printed, wash the solution of the paper so it can no longer develop in sunlight and simply leave it to dry

This is a fun way to experiment with photo manipulation and can bring back inspiration for a project. It can even simply allow you to see your photograph in new light.