workshop photographic blueprints – cyanotype

n this photographic cyanotype workshop, you will discover how to transform photographs into analogue cyanotype prints. This remarkable photographic technique from the 19th century is known for its deep cyan-blue images and forms a unique combination of photography, printmaking, and traditional craft.

During this one-day cyanotype workshop, you will learn how to use your own photographs to create photographic blueprints using digital negatives and light-sensitive paper.

What is a photographic blueprint?

Cyanotype is one of the earliest photographic printing processes. The technique uses a light-sensitive emulsion that develops a characteristic deep blue color when exposed to UV light.

In this workshop we go a step further than botanical blueprints: you will work with photographic negatives made from your own images.

These negatives are created by digitally preparing your photos and printing them onto transparent film. We then use these transparencies to expose a cyanotype print.

What will you learn during this workshop?

During the workshop you will learn the complete process step by step:

• An introduction to the cyanotype process
• Preparing photographs for use as digital negatives
• How to evaluate and adjust test prints
• Printing negatives on transparent film
• Preparing paper with cyanotype emulsion
• Exposing photographic cyanotypes using UV light
• Developing and fixing the prints
• Everything you need to continue this process at home

You will learn how contrast, transparency, and exposure time influence the final image.

From digital photograph to analogue blueprint

One of the most interesting aspects of this workshop is the combination of digital photography and analogue printmaking.

By converting your own photographs into negatives, the image undergoes a fascinating transformation. The result is a unique handmade cyanotype print with the characteristic deep blue tones.

Every print is different and demonstrates how photography, light, and chemistry come together.

Who is this workshop for?

This workshop is suitable for:

• photographers
• artists and illustrators
• graphic designers
• bookbinders and makers of artist books
• anyone interested in alternative photographic processes

What will you take home?

At the end of the workshop you will take home:

• several photographic cyanotype prints of your own work
• knowledge of working with digital negatives
• experience with a historic photographic printing technique

With this knowledge you will be able to continue experimenting with cyanotype and photographic blueprints at home.

For this workshop, some basic knowledge of photo editing is helpful. You do not need extensive experience with image-editing software; it is sufficient if you can provide a black-and-white photograph at 300 dpi in different sizes. You will receive clear instructions in advance on how to prepare your images.

Practical information

Location · Grafisch Atelier Hilversum
Address · Noorderweg 96B, 1221AB Hilversum
Date · Sunday 7 June
Time · 10:00 – 16:00
Price · €130 including materials, coffee/tea and lunch
Capacity · maximum of 5 participants
Instructor · Melanie van der Linde

Registration · click “select options” at the bottom of this page to choose a date.

If the registration form does not work, please send an email to melanie@melvdlinde.nl. You will receive a confirmation of your registration. A few weeks before the workshop you will receive an email with additional information.

Free parking is available in front of the building, and both stairs and an elevator are available.