What is a Cyanotype?

A Cyanotype is an alternative photographic process where light sensitive chemicals can be applied to paper, wood, or fabric, and an image becomes exposed through UV light such as the sun. Images placed on the surface can range from plants, objects, digital and analogue film negatives. After exposure, the exposed surface is developed with water and a blue and white image appears.

This process uses two chemicals: ferric ammonium citrate and potassium ferricyanide creating light sensitivity and the brilliant cyan colour. The cyanotype process was historically used in the late 1800’s as a way to make blueprints and English botanist and photographer Anna Atkins was one of the first artists to make “photograms” by placing plant specimens directly onto the surface to create an image.

As photographic processes, films, and cameras advanced in the early 1900’s, alternative processes such as cyanotypes faded into the background and have more recently resurfaced as a medium used by photographers and artists wanting to explore the detail captured in the beautiful blue shades, and push the boundaries of photography and documentation.