Support
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know to succeed with your prints.
Getting started
Is it really non-toxic?
Yes. VP chemistry contains no bichromate, no volatile solvents and no CMR-classified substances: you can work in your kitchen, without a mask or fume hood, and rinse in a household sink. One real precaution: wear nitrile gloves during application, to avoid lasting stains on the skin.
Do I need a darkroom?
No! That's one of our main advantages. Our processes use low light-sensitivity solutions. You can prepare your supports under normal ambient light. Only the final exposure requires a UV source (Luminograph or sunlight).
How long does it take to make a print?
Allow about 1 hour for your first print (including preparation). Once you've mastered the technique, a print takes 15-30 minutes of active work, plus drying time. The Starter Pack allows you to make 3-5 prints.
What equipment do I need at home?
Very little: a standard inkjet printer, access to running water, and ideally a well-lit space near a window. Everything else is included in our packs.
Products & Orders
Which pack should I choose to start?
The Starter Pack (€599) is ideal for beginners. It contains everything you need for your first successful prints. If you want to explore further or work in larger formats, go for the Workshop Pack (€947).
What's the difference between the packs?
Starter Pack: introduction with A4 Luminograph and Iconic Blue Kit. Workshop Pack: exploration with 3 chemistry kits of your choice. Pro Pack: both Luminographs (A4 + A3+) and all kits for intensive production.
Can I buy just the supplies?
Yes, refills (solutions, pigments, papers) are available in our shop. You can order supplies separately at any time.
Do you ship internationally?
We ship throughout the European Union. Free shipping in mainland France for orders over €79. For other destinations, contact us.
Technique
What types of images work best?
Images with good contrast give the best results: portraits, landscapes, still lifes. Avoid images that are too uniform or too detailed. Our calibration workflow automatically optimizes your file.
What surfaces can I print on?
Watercolour paper, cotton art paper, linen canvas, cotton fabric, raw wood... Any absorbent surface works. The Workshop Pack includes premium papers, the Pro Pack adds canvas and special surfaces.
My print is too light / too dark, what should I do?
Exposure time is the key variable. Too light = insufficient exposure time. Too dark = overexposure. Our guide includes a test chart to calibrate your setup. Also check our Troubleshooting page.
Are prints permanent?
Yes, with proper care. Avoid prolonged direct intense sunlight. Framed under glass with UV protection, your prints will last decades.
Luminograph
What is the Luminograph?
It's our UV exposure unit designed specifically for alternative prints. It provides a calibrated, uniform UV source for reproducible results, unlike sunlight which varies with weather and time of day.
Can I use sunlight instead?
Absolutely! All our processes work with sunlight. The Luminograph simply offers more control and reproducibility. Perfect for cloudy days or night work.
What's the difference between A4 and A3+?
The A4 Luminograph covers formats up to A4. The A3+ allows large formats up to A3+ and offers higher UV power for reduced exposure times. The Pro Pack includes both.