Cyanotype

After deciding to transform my family photographs into cyanotypes rather than presenting them in their original form, I began experimenting with one image to test whether the process would successfully communicate my idea.

I selected a photograph of my family and adjusted the contrast and tonal values in Photoshop. This was done to enhance the darker areas of the image, allowing them to stand out more clearly and create a stronger final print. The image was then converted into black and white and printed onto acetate. During this stage, the cyanotype solution was left to soak into the paper and dry fully before exposure. Once prepared, I placed the acetate onto the coated paper under a light box and exposed it for 123 seconds.

After washing the print, I was surprised by how successful the cyanotype process had been. I had expected to make several attempts in order to achieve the correct contrast and clarity, but I was very pleased with the outcome of the first print. As this was only an initial experiment to test both the process and the visual effect, I produced it at a standard size. For the final outcomes, I intend to print the cyanotypes closer to the size of traditional family photographs, approximately 6 x 4 inches, or potentially slightly larger to allow for clearer viewing and greater visual impact.