Try something new. Create something yours.

Cyanotype Workshop with Cristina Dantas in partnership with The Alchemist in Porto. An invitation to experiment, create and discover cyanotype.

Book your spot Give a workshop

What is cyanotype?

Cyanotype is a handmade photographic printing technique, created in 1842, that uses iron salts and sunlight to produce images in different shades of blue — the beautiful Prussian blue.

No previous knowledge of photography, camera or complex equipment is needed. Leaves, flowers, objects, negatives and other elements can be used to create unique images.

The technique was pioneered by the English botanist and photographer Anna Atkins, who used this process to publish the world's first book illustrated with photographs.

Cyanotype rose prints exposed to the sun

Sensitised papers drying during the workshop

Cristina Dantas guiding a cyanotype workshop

And Código Azul?

Código Azul uses cyanotype as the starting point for an experience of creation, discovery and experimentation.

During the workshop, you learn the technique, explore different possibilities and create your own images, in a space that invites you to slow down, observe and get your hands into the process.

Worktable with plants, negatives and workshop materials

Preparing a composition with a pressed plant under glass

The experience

In 3 hours, you will:

Learn the history and process of cyanotype
Watch a hands-on demonstration
Try out different creative possibilities
Create your own compositions with plants, objects and other materials
Develop your images
Take home what you made with your own hands

No photography or art background needed. Curiosity and a wish to experiment are enough.

Practical details

Duration

3 hours

Price

55€ per person

All materials included: chemicals, papers, objects, brushes, gloves, trays, light box.

Group

5 to 12 people

For whom

Anyone, with or without previous experience in photography, art or printing.

Upcoming dates

26 September4pm – 7pm
23 October6pm – 9pm
24 October4pm – 7pm
30 October6pm – 9pm

Location

The workshop takes place at The Alchemist, Rua Formosa 325, Porto, across from Bolhão Market. The easiest way to get there is by metro; if you prefer to drive, there are car parks nearby.

View on map

Who will guide you in this workshop

Cristina Dantas

I am a photographer, artist, designer and educator, with over twenty years of work in art, photography and education. My encounter with cyanotype began during my photography training, alongside other historical printing processes.

I went deeper later on, self-taught: I looked into the origins of the process and its variations, and over time built a notebook of studies and experiments that I still bring to every workshop — my Código Azul workbook.

Continuous study has always been at the heart of this project. I keep learning, testing and discovering alongside the people who join the workshops, teaching from living practice, never from a closed technique.

Código Azul was born from this meeting of photography, teaching and a long-standing love of making things by hand. Over the years it has become the space where I gather what I know about creating, experimenting and revealing, to share with those who arrive curious and leave enchanted.

Past participants

What people say about the workshops

The cyanotype workshop was a very positive experience. It was very well structured and organised, with great attention to detail, both in how the materials were laid out and in the aesthetic care and technical and scientific rigour of the presentation. The atmosphere was very pleasant and relaxed, which made learning the cyanotype process truly effective. It was an important opportunity to start learning the technique and left me very motivated.

Sofia Palmeiro

The cyanotype workshop was a very positive experience. It was very well structured and organised, with great attention to detail, both in how the materials were laid out and in the aesthetic care and technical and scientific rigour of the presentation. The atmosphere was very pleasant and relaxed, which made learning the cyanotype process truly effective. It was an important opportunity to start learning the technique and left me very motivated.

Sofia Palmeiro

A beautiful, well-spent time where I learned new and surprisingly lovely things. Cristina is very empathetic and shares everything she knows with the group. An experience to repeat every now and then.

Maria Cláudia

I can't remember learning anything so delicate and beautiful. Cristina is a Teacher with a capital T, overflowing with love for what she does. And that makes everything even more interesting. I highly recommend Código Azul's workshop with Cristina.

Lia Mendes

I loved the cyanotype workshop! Better than a week of therapy, with practical results to remind me that art frees me as much as it calms me.

Rita Rocha

I highly recommend this workshop to anyone curious to discover or explore the cyanotype technique. Cristina couldn't have been better — always available, clear and generous in sharing. She is passionate about what she does and conveys that passion at every moment, which makes the experience even more special. A unique and enriching experience that ended with an even greater wish to keep learning and exploring the endless possibilities of cyanotype.

Susana Gandra

I recommend cyanotype not only to lovers of photography and art, but to anyone curious and keen to create something with their own hands. It was a day full of creativity, new learning and inspiration to make more, and Cristina did that beautifully, showing many applications, variations and tones of this technique. I loved the experience!

Joana Lopes

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to know about photography?: No previous knowledge is needed. The workshop was designed for people who have never worked with photography, art or printing.
Do I need to be an artist or be good at art?: No. The process is about composing with objects and light, and you are free to create.
I've never done anything by hand. Can I keep up?: Yes. The process is taught step by step during the workshop itself.
Can I give this experience as a gift?: Yes, there is a gift voucher. See the section below.
What language is the workshop taught in?: Regular workshops are held in Portuguese, but non-Portuguese speakers are very welcome! I translate all explanations into English as we go, so you can follow every step seamlessly. If you would like a private session exclusively in English for a closed group or team, just get in touch by email to arrange a date.

Gift voucher

Give someone a cyanotype workshop!

The gift voucher reserves a spot in advance for one person in one of Código Azul's regular workshops. The price is 55 €, with all materials included.

HOW IT WORKS

Enter your name and email below. You will receive a message with the payment details.
Once payment is confirmed, we will send you an email explaining the next steps in full.

We only use your email to send you the voucher details. No advertising is sent without your prior consent.

Código Azul gift voucher for the cyanotype workshop

Cyanotype of a figure on a pier by the sea

Cyanotype of a flower with leafy shadows

Cyanotype of three figures seen from behind

Cyanotype of a figure on the beach with seagulls

Cyanotype of a bicycle and an old suitcase

Round cyanotype of a person drawing outdoors

Ready to try something new?

Fill in the form below to book your spot.

Full name

Workshop date

WhatsApp number

We only use this number if we need to confirm something, let you know about a change to the workshop, or contact you about your sign-up. No advertising is sent without your prior consent.

Instagram (optional)

One more way for me to send you a notice about the workshop you signed up for.

How did you hear about Código Azul?

GIFT VOUCHER CODE

If you received or bought a gift voucher, enter its code here.

Coming with a friend? Each person in the group should fill in this form separately, with their own name and email. Just come back to this page and click any sign-up button again.

I understand my spot is only confirmed after payment.

Please tick to continue with your sign-up.