Sun printing

Sun printing

A sun print is a contact print (1:1). It is made by placing objects onto light 
sensitive paper and exposing with UV light. When exposed to light, the solid 
objects stop the light from exposing the paper. Anything used where light can 
pass through makes a pattern or picture on the paper. Solid objects will result in 
that area of the paper staying white or off-white. 

Block out the light with things that have interesting shapes.

Equipment:
• A piece of card or wood to use as a base board 
• A sheet of glass or acrylic sheet 
• Photographic chemicals - Fix 

• Water 

Work in a darkened room to prepare your composition. Place your light 
sensitive photographic paper on top of a piece of card. Make sure the paper is 
emulsion side up (shinny side up). 
• When ready, place a piece of card on top of the light sensitive paper and 
objects to keep it in place and cover with a second piece of card (this will stop
the paper from exposing until ready). 
• Carry your work outside and place on the floor in the 
sun. Remove the protective card and expose. 
• Expose the paper until you see an imprint appear. 
This can take anything from 8 to 60 minutes 
depending on the strength of the UV light. An 
average is between 15 - 25 minutes. 
• When exposed, cover with the protective card and 
return to the darkened room. 
• Carefully remove your objects and rinse light 
sensitive paper in cold water if dirty. 
• Place the exposed sheet of light sensitive paper into in the fix tray for 5-7 
minutes. This will stop the paper from exposing and create a permanent 
image. 

• Wash and dry