Cyanotype printing workshop

Cyanotype Workshop

Join photographer, visual artist and experienced photography educator Carolyn Lefley for a relaxed, practical three-hour introduction to the beautiful and distinctive photographic process of cyanotype.

This hands-on workshop is suitable for beginners and anyone interested in exploring alternative photographic processes. You’ll be introduced to the history and possibilities of cyanotype before learning how to create your own photographic prints using natural materials to create photo stencils. The workshop takes place at Carolyn’s home studio/workshop space and garden, where you’ll be learning the fundamentals of cyanotype printing in a friendly, informal setting.

The workshop will include demonstrations and practical guidance in:

• Understanding the cyanotype process and how it works
• Preparing and mixing the cyanotype chemistry
• Coating paper and fabric by hand
• Creating images using plants, leaves and other natural forms
• Demonstration: Preparing and using digital negatives to create photographic cyanotypes
• Understanding exposure and using sunlight or UV light to make your prints
• Washing cyanotypes
• Experimenting with composition, transparency and layering
• Creating cyanotypes on both paper and fabric
• Exploring the creative possibilities of cyanotype as an alternative photographic process

You’ll have the opportunity to make a series of your own cyanotype prints throughout the session, experimenting with botanical photograms. Carolyn will demonstrate each stage of the process and provide individual guidance as you work.

The workshop is deliberately kept to a small group, allowing plenty of time for practical experimentation, questions and individual support.

Tea, coffee and biscuits provided. Arrive from 9.30am, for a 10am start. Three hour workshop, finishing at 1pm.

About Carolyn

Carolyn Lefley is a professional photographer, visual artist and photography educator with 20 years' experience teaching photography in further and higher education. Her own practice explores our relationship with the natural world through photography, moving image and alternative photographic processes, including cyanotype.

Carolyn has extensive experience working with cyanotype on paper and fabric, incorporating natural materials, photographic imagery and experimental techniques into her practice. Carolyn is First Aid trained providing a safe, supportive and professional environment for participants. No previous experience of photography or cyanotype is required. All materials and equipment for the workshop are provided.