Step-by-Step Process: From Holga to Cyanotype

1. Capturing Your Image

Start with a Holga camera to take your photographs. This can be any camera really, but this is how I did it.

2. Creating a Negative

Have your chosen Holga images printed onto transparency paper. This step transforms your photographs into negatives that can be used to expose the cyanotype. You can do this at home by inverting your images in photoshop and printing them onto a transparency paper compatible with your printer.

3. Using Pre-Treated Cyanotype Fabric Sheets

Instead of mixing chemicals, I use Jacquard Cyanotype Pretreated Fabric Sheets, which simplify the entire process. These sheets are ready to use and only require exposure to UV light to develop. I recommend using gloves when handling chemically treated paper.

4. Exposing the Fabric to Light

Lay your transparency negative over the pretreated fabric sheet. Before removing the paper from the envelope, note that the paper inside is UV-protected. Once exposed to light, it will begin to develop, so move swiftly. Place a piece of glass over the top to ensure close contact between the negative and the fabric during exposure. I use a piece of glass from an old picture frame, with edges taped using painter’s tape to minimize any risk of injury. Expose this setup to sunlight (UV light works as well, but not without the proper wattage).

Development Time

The exposure time under UV light can vary significantly based on several factors:

Intensity of the Sunlight: Bright, direct sunlight will shorten the exposure time, typically needing about 10 to 15 minutes.
Weather Conditions: On a cloudy day, exposure can take up to 30 minutes or even longer.
Altitude and Latitude: Higher altitudes and locations closer to the equator have more intense sunlight, which can also affect the duration.
Season: Sunlight intensity varies with seasons; summer days usually require shorter exposures compared to winter.

Keep a close watch during exposure to prevent overexposing, which can wash out the fine details of your image.

5. Developing Your Print

Once exposed, in a tub or large sink rinse the fabric sheet in water mixed with a small amount of alcohol. This addition helps to clear unexposed photochemicals effectively, enhancing the clarity and contrast of your print. The washing should continue until all the yellow residue is gone, leaving you with a vibrant blue and white print.

Good Luck!