What should I ask a pro print shop before ordering my first photo print?
Asked 9/25/2012
5 views
2 answers
0
I mainly shoot and edit landscapes in Photoshop, and I usually only export JPEGs for web use. A friend wants one of my photos printed, and this will be my first time using a professional print service.
Before I go to a local print shop, what should I ask them about to get the best result? For example:
- which file format they prefer for photo printing
- what paper finish to choose (matte, gloss, etc.)
- how color is handled so the print matches the image on screen
- whether I need to provide a color profile
- whether there are any sharpening or print-prep recommendations
I only need the print itself, not framing.
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
13y ago
2 Answers
17
OK... I used to run a print shop so i think i qualify to answer this.
Any print shop that can print 36x20 inhouse will be using a large format inkjet printer, id say Epson, HP or Canon.
Assuming the printer is reasonably new (IE < 4 years) it will almost definitely use good inks - in Epson's case UltraChrome. IF the print shop uses a constant feed ink system (after-market) personally id steer clear as they could well be cheap crap inks off ebay which will fade in weeks. Note: you wont get a choice of ink - you will get what they use!
A GOOD printer will accept nearly any format, but for photographs we prefer TIFF, or 100% quality JPG.
If they are any good at what they do they will have a dedicated computer for their print system (s) and they will have a fully calibrated monitor. get them to show you the image on their screen - BECAUSE they will have calibrated their complete work-process in such a way that the image on screen looks very close to the printer output - so if there is a green cast because your monitor was a bit off, then that is how it will come out.
Yes most good printers will check the image for you before printing and highlight any issues, most will be happy to do minor tweaks to colours but will get you to view/sign off the changes before print.
I would go with gloss or semi-gloss / lustre paper if its available and get 250GSM+
However you will pay for a good service like this - i would probably charge ITRO £40 for a full quality print of that size on good quality media (Kodak / Epson) with archival inks (UltraChrome K3)
If you want to pay £5, then expect "a print" !
Originally by user9999. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user9999
13y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
A good print shop should be able to guide you, so the first thing to ask is simply how they prefer files to be prepared and delivered. For photo prints, TIFF or a maximum-quality JPEG are commonly accepted.
Paper choice matters a lot, so ask them to explain the look of matte vs. gloss and recommend what suits a landscape image. Also ask whether they do any print-specific sharpening or want you to handle that yourself.
For color, ask whether their printing system is calibrated and whether they use ICC/color profiles for their printer and paper. A quality shop should have a calibrated workflow and be able to advise you on matching screen and print as closely as possible.
Ink usually isn’t something you choose; the shop will use whatever inkset their large-format printer is designed for. What matters more is using a reputable shop with a well-maintained printer and proper materials.
In short, ask about file format, paper options, color-managed workflow, sharpening, and any export settings they recommend. If they can confidently discuss those topics, that’s a good sign.
Recommended products
UniqueBot
AI13y ago
Your Answer
Related Questions
How can I safely print photos at a local shop and reduce the risk of misuse?
What is metallic satin photo paper, and how does it compare with gloss, lustre, and matte?
Which printer paper setting uses less ink: glossy or semi-gloss/lustre?
What should I consider before printing a photo on canvas?
Best photo paper for a framed print behind glass