The Dark Room is a photographic workshop which allows photographers to develop negative film and process light sensitive materials in a fully dark and safe environment. In the dark room, you will be able to mix chemicals to develop images onto photographic paper.
Photograms:
A Photogram is a camera-less image, created by exposing light onto photographic paper. The photographic paper is placed on the bed of the enlarger and white light is exposed onto the paper. Any objects which are opaque, will block the exposure of the light and therefore when the image is developed, they will remain white. Any areas that have been exposed to the white light will appear black.
Cyanotypes - Watch the Video and answer the questions
Who Invented the Cyanotype process? Add an image of them.
Which Botanist used the Cyanotype for her images? What was the name of her book? Add an image of the Botanist and their book.
Other than Photography, which other creative profession used Cyanotype? What are the Cyanotypes called in this profession? Add an image of this.
Which chemicals are used in the process of making a Cyanotype? Add images of both.
What makes the paper light sensitive?
In your own words, summarise the process of preparing the paper for a Cyanotype.
In your own words, explain the process of exposing the paper of a cyanotype.
In your own words, explain the processing and drying of a cyanotype.
Do you consider Cyanotypes Art? Please explain your thoughts on this with reasons why.
Explore what an Anthotype is and explain how it is made. Include images.
Cyanotype Sensitizer solution method
Add 40g of Potassium Ferricyanide to 400ml of water to create solution A. Add 100g of Ferric Ammonium Citrate to 400ml of water to create Solution B. Allow solutions to dissolve over 24 hours.
Mix solution A and B together in equal parts to create the Cyanotype Sensitizer solution. Once mixed, the Cyanotype Sensitizer is only stable for 2-4 hours.
Coat the paper (or whatever is desired) away from sunlight. Use of a foam brush (for an even coat) to cover the paper in the solution. Then leave the paper to dry in the dark. Keep it in the dark until it is ready to be used.
Place the negative object onto the paper. Place a piece of glass (contact easel) onto the paper one everything is placed. Then leave the paper under sunlight or a UV lamp. The exposure time depends on the brightness of the light, so testing is needed. The paper or fabric will start to change colour during the exposure. The exposed part of the material darken, this shows the photo is ready to wash.
Finally rinse the paper under warm water for 2 minutes. The colours will be reversed. This will also fix the exposed image- making it safe to view in daylight.