In the compelling portfolio of cyanotype photographs titled Salerno Viaggio, the observer is treated to a captivating visual narrative that unfolds aboard a ferry as it crosses the Tyrrhenian Sea from the vibrant city of Palermo to the charming coastal town of Salerno. The collection masterfully captures the essence of the journey, portraying the interplay of light and shadow, the sea’s ebb and flow, and the passengers’ emotions and interactions. Furthermore, the series seamlessly transitions to immerse the viewer in the vibrant atmosphere of Salerno, showcasing evocative snapshots that provide a window into the city’s fascinating history, architectural marvels, and the profound tapestry of its cultural heritage.
Shooting technique
I captured these photos using a SonyA6600 digital camera, post-producing them with Capture One before printing them as full-size digital negatives.
Cyanotype photographs: the process
These images are not mere photographs but a testament to the meticulous artistry of the cyanotype process, which traces its origins back to 1842. A solution of photosensitive iron salts is delicately painted upon watercolour paper. Once dry, a digital negative is carefully sandwiched with the paper and illuminated with ultraviolet light. The resulting blue image is a cyanotype photograph, a unique and captivating art form. I then proceeded to bleach the image lightly before toning it in a solution made from black walnut husk, toning the whites while giving the blues a distinct violet cast.
Cyanotype photographs: the process
These images are not mere photographs but a testament to the meticulous artistry of the cyanotype process, which traces its origins back to 1842. A solution of photosensitive iron salts is delicately painted upon watercolour paper. Once dry, a digital negative is carefully sandwiched with the paper and illuminated with ultraviolet light. The resulting blue image is a cyanotype photograph, a unique and captivating art form. I then lightly bleached the image before toning it in tannic acid, adding depth and character to the composition with darker iron grey and lighter reddish brown hues.
