Electrodeposition of a metal can produce aggregates with very irregular morphologies, in particular dendrites. In order to better understand these phenomena, we studied the preliminary stage of copper growth from copper sulfate by in situ optical experiments and impedance spectroscopy. Experiments were performed in a thin layer cell put in a vertical position, with cathode on top. Using a vertical cell instead of a horizontal one tends to stabilize the electrochemical system. The concentration measured by optical absorption is in agreement with theoretical prediction at the onset of polarization. Close to the limiting current density, oscillations were observed in the cell voltage. Impedance spectra could be fitted either using a simple equivalent circuit at low current density, or more complex calculations at high current density. (C) 2007 Published by Elsevier Ltd.