How to Create Alternative Process Prints Using Simple Tools

💡Introduction to Alternative Process Printing

Alternative process printing encompasses a range of photographic and printmaking techniques that deviate from conventional silver-based photography. These methods often involve using sunlight or UV light to expose images, and they rely on chemical reactions to create the final print. The beauty of these processes lies in their simplicity, affordability, and the unique aesthetic qualities they produce.

These methods are perfect for artists and hobbyists seeking to experiment with photography in a hands-on, creative way. Many of these techniques can be practiced using household items and easily sourced chemicals, making them an accessible entry point into the world of printmaking. Embrace the experimental nature of these processes and enjoy the unpredictable beauty they offer.

The imperfections and variations inherent in alternative processes are part of their charm. Each print is truly one-of-a-kind, reflecting the unique conditions under which it was created.

☀️Creating Cyanotypes: The Blueprint Process

Cyanotype, also known as the blueprint process, is one of the oldest and simplest alternative printing methods. It produces beautiful Prussian blue images through a photochemical reaction involving iron salts and UV light.

Materials Needed:

• Ammonium iron(III) citrate
• Potassium ferricyanide
• Distilled water
• Watercolor paper or fabric
• Paintbrushes or foam brushes
• Glass or acrylic sheet
• Objects to create silhouettes (leaves, flowers, stencils, etc.)
• UV light source (sunlight works best)

Steps:

1. Prepare the Cyanotype Solution: Mix equal parts of a 25% solution of ammonium iron(III) citrate and a 10% solution of potassium ferricyanide. Combine the chemicals with distilled water in separate containers until fully dissolved. Mix equal parts of each solution in a third container.
2. Coat the Paper or Fabric: Using a brush, evenly coat the paper or fabric with the cyanotype solution. Do this in a dimly lit room, as the solution is light-sensitive.
3. Dry the Coated Material: Allow the coated paper or fabric to dry completely in the dark. A clothesline in a dark room works well.
4. Arrange Objects: Place the dried, coated material on a flat surface. Arrange your chosen objects on top, creating the desired composition.
5. Expose to UV Light: Cover the objects with a sheet of glass or acrylic to ensure good contact. Expose the arrangement to direct sunlight or a UV lamp. Exposure time varies depending on the intensity of the light, but typically ranges from 5 to 30 minutes. The paper will turn a bronze color during exposure.
6. Wash and Develop: Once exposed, remove the objects and wash the paper or fabric thoroughly with cold water for several minutes until the yellow coating is gone. The blue color will intensify during washing.
7. Dry the Print: Hang the print to dry completely. The blue color will deepen further as it dries.

🌿Lumen Prints: Capturing the Essence of Plants

Lumen prints offer a unique way to capture the essence of plants and other organic materials directly onto photographic paper. This cameraless technique relies on the natural chemicals within the plant matter to react with the silver halides in the paper, creating ethereal and unpredictable images.

Materials Needed:

• Expired black and white photographic paper
• Plants, flowers, or other organic materials
• Glass or acrylic sheet
• Clips or tape
• Sunlight
• Fixer (optional, but recommended for archival purposes)
• Water for washing

Steps:

1. Prepare the Paper: Take a sheet of expired black and white photographic paper (unexposed). Expired paper often yields more interesting results.
2. Arrange the Plants: Place the plants directly onto the emulsion side of the photographic paper. Experiment with different arrangements and combinations.
3. Cover and Secure: Cover the plants and paper with a sheet of glass or acrylic to ensure close contact. Use clips or tape to hold everything in place.
4. Expose to Sunlight: Place the assembly in direct sunlight. Exposure times can vary from a few hours to several days, depending on the intensity of the sun and the desired effect. Check the progress periodically.
5. Develop (Optional): For a more stable image, you can fix the print. However, many artists prefer to leave the print unfixed, allowing the image to continue to evolve over time.
6. Wash and Dry: If fixing, wash the print thoroughly in water after fixing. Whether fixed or unfixed, rinse the print to remove any remaining plant residue. Allow the print to dry completely.

📷Creating Photograms: Shadows and Light

Photograms are images created by placing objects directly onto photographic paper and exposing them to light. This simple technique produces striking silhouettes and abstract compositions, offering endless possibilities for creative exploration.

Materials Needed:

• Black and white photographic paper
• Objects to create silhouettes (keys, tools, leaves, etc.)
• Enlarger or bright light source
• Darkroom or a darkened room
• Developer, stop bath, and fixer chemicals
• Trays for chemicals
• Water for washing

Steps:

1. Set Up the Darkroom: Prepare your darkroom or darkened room with the necessary chemicals and trays. Ensure the room is light-tight.
2. Place Objects on Paper: Place a sheet of photographic paper (emulsion side up) on a flat surface. Arrange your chosen objects on top of the paper.
3. Expose to Light: Turn on the enlarger or light source for a brief period. Exposure time will vary depending on the intensity of the light and the desired effect. Start with a short exposure (e.g., 1-2 seconds) and adjust as needed.
4. Develop the Print: Carefully slide the exposed paper into the developer tray. Agitate gently for the recommended development time (usually 1-2 minutes).
5. Stop Bath: Transfer the print to the stop bath for about 30 seconds.
6. Fix the Print: Move the print to the fixer tray and agitate for the recommended fixing time (usually 2-5 minutes).
7. Wash and Dry: Wash the print thoroughly in running water for at least 20-30 minutes to remove all traces of chemicals. Hang the print to dry completely.

🎨Tips for Success in Alternative Printing

Experimentation is key to mastering alternative printing techniques. Don’t be afraid to try different materials, exposure times, and development methods to achieve unique results.

• Control Your Variables: Keep detailed notes of your process, including exposure times, chemical concentrations, and environmental conditions. This will help you troubleshoot problems and replicate successful prints.
• Embrace Imperfection: Alternative processes are inherently unpredictable. Embrace the imperfections and variations that make each print unique.
• Use High-Quality Materials: While these processes are relatively inexpensive, using high-quality paper and chemicals will improve the longevity and appearance of your prints.
• Proper Ventilation: Ensure you have adequate ventilation when working with chemicals.
• Safety First: Always wear gloves and eye protection when handling chemicals. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe handling and disposal.

✨Further Exploration

Once you’ve mastered the basics of cyanotypes, lumen prints, and photograms, you can explore other alternative printing techniques, such as Van Dyke brown printing, gum bichromate printing, and salt printing. Each process offers its own unique aesthetic and challenges.

Consider exploring toning techniques to further alter the color and characteristics of your prints. Toning can enhance the archival qualities of your prints and create subtle shifts in tone and contrast. Experiment with different types of toners, such as sepia toner, selenium toner, and gold toner.

Join online communities and forums dedicated to alternative photography. These communities provide a valuable resource for sharing knowledge, troubleshooting problems, and finding inspiration.