Cyanotypes are easy and fun, and are the ideal way for someone to start exploration of historical and alternative photographic processes. The chemicals used are affordable and relatively safe, while most of the preparations can be done in a normally lighten room. Numerous places sell readymade Cyanotype supplies or even paper that has been presensitized.
Such supplies can be found online or in photo shops catering to analogue photographers. To make a Cyanotype, several things are required. One is a sensitized solution that the person can mix themselves or available in a kit. The other is a medium, typically a smooth and entirely rag paper. However, a piece of wood or cloth can also be used.
An appropriate negative of about 35mm which is not flat and possessing a full range of densities is needed. A frame for contact prints is the last requirement, which can be made from a photo frame or a piece of glass. In addition, a source of light is needed, and in this process the sun would be just fine. As what are being made are contact prints, each of the prints will be similar in size to the negative used.
To begin the process, opening of the image is done using any available post-production software. Should the negative not already be in black and white, conversion to color should be made with the use of any available method. Reversing the image is done as soon as a non-color image is gotten, and the contrast, levels and brightness have undergone suitable adjustment. The image is then printed on any film at the size required of the final image, using an inkjet printer.
The sensitized paper and the negative are exposed in direct sunlight. The amount of exposure will depend on the density of the negative, the paper used, the amount of sunlight together with other variables. During summertime, exposures should run between three and six minutes, while in winter it should take about 30 minutes.
In case the Cyanotype process is not utilizing the contact print frame, a part of the negatives edge can be glued to the paper, but caution should be taken to use only clear tape. Additionally, the materials should not be exposed to direct sunlight. The image should be darker than the needed final image.
Development is very easy, as all one has to do is slowly wash the print under running tap water for about 10 minutes. The highlights will be washed off by the blue stain, making the image lighten, and in some cases it may appear too light. The print is then hanged from a clothes line to dry, or set out on a nylon widow screen. The highlights should darken somewhat as it dries so as to pick up a little more detail, while the shadows lighten significantly, picking up more details too.
Utilizing Cyanotype supplies to make Cyanotype is as simple as that. The process takes time and practice to do correctly, so one should not be worried if it does not turn out perfectly. All that matters is following the steps meticulously and using the right supplies.
Such supplies can be found online or in photo shops catering to analogue photographers. To make a Cyanotype, several things are required. One is a sensitized solution that the person can mix themselves or available in a kit. The other is a medium, typically a smooth and entirely rag paper. However, a piece of wood or cloth can also be used.
An appropriate negative of about 35mm which is not flat and possessing a full range of densities is needed. A frame for contact prints is the last requirement, which can be made from a photo frame or a piece of glass. In addition, a source of light is needed, and in this process the sun would be just fine. As what are being made are contact prints, each of the prints will be similar in size to the negative used.
To begin the process, opening of the image is done using any available post-production software. Should the negative not already be in black and white, conversion to color should be made with the use of any available method. Reversing the image is done as soon as a non-color image is gotten, and the contrast, levels and brightness have undergone suitable adjustment. The image is then printed on any film at the size required of the final image, using an inkjet printer.
The sensitized paper and the negative are exposed in direct sunlight. The amount of exposure will depend on the density of the negative, the paper used, the amount of sunlight together with other variables. During summertime, exposures should run between three and six minutes, while in winter it should take about 30 minutes.
In case the Cyanotype process is not utilizing the contact print frame, a part of the negatives edge can be glued to the paper, but caution should be taken to use only clear tape. Additionally, the materials should not be exposed to direct sunlight. The image should be darker than the needed final image.
Development is very easy, as all one has to do is slowly wash the print under running tap water for about 10 minutes. The highlights will be washed off by the blue stain, making the image lighten, and in some cases it may appear too light. The print is then hanged from a clothes line to dry, or set out on a nylon widow screen. The highlights should darken somewhat as it dries so as to pick up a little more detail, while the shadows lighten significantly, picking up more details too.
Utilizing Cyanotype supplies to make Cyanotype is as simple as that. The process takes time and practice to do correctly, so one should not be worried if it does not turn out perfectly. All that matters is following the steps meticulously and using the right supplies.
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Our web page www.cyanotypestore.com reveals how you can buy good quality and affordable cyanotype supplies. To make an enquiry with our experienced staff, click on this link http://www.cyanotypestore.com.
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