A practical guide to building a safe, reliable LED exposure box for cyanotype printing, enabling consistent results without relying on sunlight. Writer and photography / Manfred J. Semmler To be able to produce cyanotypes at any time, even without sunlight, I built an exposure box. The simplest solution is to take a piece of cardboard with a base slightly larger than the paper size, remove the bottom completely, and cut … Read more
In part 5 of our cyanotype series, Caroline Roberts takes the chemigraph process one step further by layering traditional contact prints over chemigraphs. Building on earlier experiments with chemical ratios, additives, and transparency exposures, she explores how combining two exposures on a single sheet can create complex, textured images. Roberts shares her detailed workflow – from soaking and coating to re-exposing and managing contrast – and discusses common pitfalls such … Read more
In part 4 of our cyanotype series, Caroline Roberts continues her exploration of chemigraphs – abstract cyanotypes created through chemical reactions – by combining them with transparencies. Building on her previous articles, she experiments with how different drying and exposure methods affect the final image. Roberts compares results from outdoor and UV-unit exposures, revealing surprising variations in tone, blending, and contrast. Through detailed testing, she discovers that dried chemigraphs paired … Read more
In the first two parts of this series, we explored how dilution, exposure time, and moisture can dramatically shift the tonal and colour range of cyanotypes. In this third instalment, Caroline Roberts pushes further by introducing everyday household chemicals into the mix – salt, alcohol, washing soda – each creating unpredictable, expressive effects. What began as an attempt to “address the blue” evolved into a new way of working, where … Read more
No to Black Friday! Shopping sprees won’t make you – or the planet – any happier. Instead of going crazy for stuff you don’t need, skip the sales and take part in Buy Nothing Day, Green Friday, or Circular Monday instead. It is all about slowing down, appreciating what we already have, and making conscious choices for a healthier planet. Instead of filling your cart, fill your day with creativity … Read more
In part 2 of our cyanotype series, Caroline Roberts explores the “super-wet” technique – a variation where paper is soaked before coating, unlocking a vibrant spectrum of unexpected tones. Originally developed to cope with hot Texas weather, this method opens up creative possibilities for photograms, unconventional coating methods, and dramatic colour shifts. In this 5-part experimental cyanotype series, Caroline Roberts explores how variations in dilution, exposure, and moisture can expand the … Read more
Want to go deep into experimental cyanotypes? In the first part of a 5-part series, Caroline Roberts shares her cyanotype research and how changes in chemical dilution and mixing ratios affect the tone and colour. Sharing the methods, discoveries, and visual results from her tests. In this experimental cyanotype series, Caroline Roberts explores how variations in dilution, exposure, and moisture can expand the creative potential of cyanotypes. Based on her … Read more
A cyanotype is made by exposing paper coated with light-sensitive cyanotype chemicals in the sun or under a UV light box, usually resulting in rich Prussian blue images. But exposure times vary, so what would be the best exposure time? –> Fill out form and share your exposure time, UV and colour of the final print here. If you used a UV unit or LED lamp to expose, the result … Read more
Clive Pigott tries out Annette Golaz’s recipe for toning cyanotypes with avocado. The original recipe can be found in Annette Golaz’s book Cyanotype Toning alongside many other recipes. Writer and photography / Clive Pigott I was first introduced to alternative and historical printing techniques back in the early 90’s, when I was in my late 20’s. I had picked up an anniversary copy of the British Journal of Photography which … Read more
Few things are more frustrating than being ready to print – only to discover you’re out of supplies, or that the paper you grabbed last minute ruins your image. Use it to learn or to take part in World Cyanotype Day. We have put together a handy checklist of materials, plus some recommended reading if it’s been a while since you last printed – or if you’re just curious to … Read more
Ready to take your anthotype practice to the next level? Gabriele Coassin shares three years of in-depth experimentation, revealing little-known tips, seasonal tricks, and personal discoveries that go far beyond the basics. His shares findings from unexpected plant emulsions to innovative winter conservation methods. Writer and photography / Gabriele Coassin This article is for those who already know the basics of anthotypes. For beginners, read this article and there is … Read more
Want to learn anthotypes or dive deeper into the process, find inspiration, practical guidance, and new ideas? We’ve got the books for you. If you’re starting out, Anthotypes – Explore the Darkroom… is the essential how-to guide, and once you are ready to move on, Anthotypes – The complete guide… will get you stuck in. It walks you through every step of the process and offers extra insights for more … Read more
In the spirit of photographic experimentation, the “aloetype process” emerged from over a decade of creative inquiry into plant-based image-making. Aloe produces warm, tan-to-yellow negative images using just three simple ingredients: aloe, vinegar, and baking soda. It’s a mostly nontoxic, accessible process that works on a variety of absorbent surfaces, making it ideal for artists, educators, and alternative photography enthusiasts seeking sustainable, low-tech methods. Writer and photography / Ben Conway … Read more
Bernd Hutschenreuther shares how he enhances cyanotype prints by using a vacuum-sealed bag to press leaves or other materials tightly against the paper, ensuring sharp detail. Inspired by Lothmann’s experiments, this technique is practical for achieving high precision in botanical cyanotypes. Writer and photography / Bernd Hutschenreuther The main benefit of using a vacuum-sealed bag for cyanotype printing is achieving sharp, high-detail prints by ensuring perfect contact between the object … Read more
Cyanotypes are one of the most accessible photographic printing processes. With a few compact tools in your backpack, Christiane Casas shares how to create unique blue-toned prints on the go – in just five minutes! Whether you’re at the beach, in a park, or exploring a new city, this method lets you capture the moment in a tactile, artistic way. Here’s how to turn a snapshot into a cyanotype print. … Read more
The Rawlins oil print process, developed in 1904, creates stunning archival quality prints with deep blacks and rich tones using minimal chemistry, Richard Hildred shares a safer version of the process – discover this unique technique making timeless prints. Writer and photography / Richard B. Hildred ABIPP WARNING: This is for experienced and advanced users. Read the MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) before attempting to use chemicals and use the … Read more
Building on the foundation of duotone cyanotype, Matthew Bary guides us through the next step – creating tri-colour cyanotypes, including a detailed step-by-step for preparing negatives. Drawing from earlier failed experiments. With emphasis on image selection, precision, and patience, this method reveals how vibrant, multi-layered cyanotypes can be achieved using simple materials and creative problem-solving. Writer and photography / Matthew Bary My “duo tone” tests and instructions ultimately came … Read more
The FIFTH World Anthotype Day will be taking place this year from 1st August to 31st October. We know that seems like a long time away, BUT… Don’t make the same mistake again, use a QUALITY paper and start EARLY! Writer and photography / Malin Fabbri ✿ Open: 1st August to 31st October. ✿ Free to enter, open to all. ✿ Mission: Find unusual emulsions ✿ See the entry requirements … Read more
Stéphanie Probst challenges the widespread belief that pinhole photography is the original form of photography. Inspired by Denis Bernard’s Sténopés, it traces the technique’s modern roots, distinguishes it from the camera obscura, and explores its resurgence as an avant-garde, poetic practice. Historical analysis and personal reflection reveal that pinhole photography is not a relic but a vibrant, experimental tool with lasting creative potential. Writer / Stéphanie Probst What if pinhole … Read more
Gabriele Coassin shares a process which transforms cyanotype negatives into striking black-and-white silver prints. By contact printing in the darkroom, artists can achieve unique tonal effects, enhance contrast, and explore creative techniques like toning or liquid emulsion for further artistic expression. Writer / Gabriele Coassin Photography / The photographs included in this project were taken by participants WARNING: This is for experienced and advanced users only. Read the MSDS (Material … Read more