What is a cyanotype?

Cyanotype is an alternative analogue process that produces a distinct cyan print. It is one of the most accessible and fun types of alternative image-making techniques to try out at home.

Discovered by Sir John Herschel in 1842, cyanotypes are popular among people who would like to easily start experimenting with alternative analogue processes. To create cyanotypes, a negative is reproduced on photosensitive paper using chemicals exposed to UV light. Three-dimensional objects such as organic materials can also be used for cyanotypes.

The charm of a cyanotype lies in its bright blue color and its simple process. The depth of the image retained on the photographic paper will depend on the exposure time in the sun, so making cyanotypes is a great experience for anyone learning about alternative processes and experimenting with composition.

Credits: martinpruv, fisheyemary, martinluke, manu2021

Looking to learn more about cyanotypes or make one of your own? Check out this guide on the Lomography Online Magazine: Tipster: How to Make Wet Cyanotype Prints

Anything missing?

Can’t find an answer to your question? Or do you have some useful advice to add to one of our courses? We want to build the world’s largest analogue learning space, so please send any further requests or information to school@lomography.com and we’ll take a look!

Photos From Other Students

Do you want to see your photos featured here for all Lomo School students to see? If you think your photos fit this article just tag them with “cyanotype”. We take a look at all these photos and select our favorites. See all photos tagged with “cyanotype” here.

More Courses

  • What are some easy alternative analogue processes for beginners?

    Some of the easiest, most common and beginner-friendly alternative analogue processes to try out are lumen printing, chemigrams, and cyanotypes.

  • What is a chemigram?

    A chemigram is a camera-less printing technique that produces an image using chemicals and light-sensitive paper.

  • What is a lumen print?

    Lumen printing harnesses the power of the sun to make images. Place objects on photographic paper and expose it to sunlight to create a simple lumen print.

  • What is the wet-plate collodion process?

    This technique got its name from staining a piece of glass with collodion and other chemicals to make it light sensitive. It is then placed in the camera before the photographer proceeds to take a photo and expose the wet plate.

  • What are alternative analogue processes?

    Alternative analogue processes refer to non-traditional or non-commercial photographic printing techniques.