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Photo Printing
As photographers, we grind out countless hours capturing images, meticulously editing photos on monitors, and sharing selects in the virtual world. However, there is no substitute for, nothing quite as special as, seeing your work in physical, printed form. Printing your photos not only allows you to better appreciate your craft, but can open up revenue opportunities through galleries and sales. Yet for many, the process of printing remains mysterious and even a daunting task. This guide will walk you through much of what you need to know to start printing photos that match your vision.
Camera Settings and Capture
While you can undoubtedly print photos taken on any camera, a few tweaked settings can help optimize images for the print. Shooting in RAW format is ideal, as it preserves more image data to play with later in post-processing than JPEGs. RAW files allow far more flexibility in making adjustments to things like white balance without losing its luscious looks. They also have greater dynamic range, retaining more highlights and shadows detail that may be crucial for a good print.
Even seemingly low-resolution cameras like 20 megapixels are capable of large prints, as long as the recommended viewing distance is considered. As the size of a print increases, the viewer will naturally stand farther back. At a typical viewing distance, most people would be unable to discern the difference between a 20 and 30 MP image on an 8x10 print, for example.
Display Calibration and Editing
How your monitor displays colors is absolutely key when preparing files for print. Most computer operating systems have built-in display calibration routines, but third party colorimeters provide the most accurate results. Be sure to calibrate your display regularly, as performance can shift over time.
When editing, work in a color space like Adobe RGB that supports a wide gamut. ProPhoto RGB is even better but may not be fully supported by your hardware. Edit in a neutral lighting environment, avoiding overly bright or dim conditions which can compromise color accuracy on screen.
Consider post-processing adjustments specifically with prints in mind. Open up shadows slightly, as printed areas may appear darker. Sharpen judiciously to avoid a harsh, “crunchy” effect. And brighten exposures a touch, usually around +0.3 to +0.5 stops, as prints will seem darker than the monitor. Checking for blown highlights during this step using the Alt/Option key is also wise.
File Settings and Export
When export settings roll around, resolution is an often-misunderstood factor. While increasingly high megapixels allow larger prints, file resolution doesn't directly correlate and is more about print density. For most use cases, 240 ppi resolution is sufficient and doesn't require heavy file sizes.
As for format, TIFF is lossless and ideal for repeated editing cycles. Otherwise, high quality JPEGs work great and are nearly indistinguishable from TIFFs at normal print sizes. Maintain the original file dimensions and quality of 100 when exporting. A color space like Adobe RGB should be selected, as it offers wider gamut support over sRGB.
Understanding Media Options
Print substrate, or the material photos are printed on, has a huge influence on look and feel. Glossy papers deliver vivid, saturated colors best. Semi-gloss has a more naturally subdued appearance. Matte papers diffuse light more evenly but with muted impact.
You may also want to experiment with metals like aluminum, which provide high shine and depth. And of course, innovations like acrylic and resin allow creative mounting and display possibilities. Different materials pair best with certain subject matter as well - glossy for colorful landscapes, matte for portraits. Getting test prints across substrates is key to finding the perfect match.
Getting the Final Print
When placing print orders, ensure the color profiles correspond with your desired outcome. A trustworthy printing service, like the local AnySizeArt near Charlotte, NC, will utilize profiles that are compatible with your workflow. Examine the final files meticulously on calibrated equipment prior to confirming bulk orders to prevent unexpected results. Adhere to the suggested handling guidelines too, as fingerprints can swiftly damage glossy finishes.
By putting in the effort with capture, display calibration, color management and file preparation, your prints have every opportunity to achieve your vision. Print some test shots and don't be afraid to try new papers or sizes. For any photographer, the inspiration that comes from seeing your work in a large-scale physical format is unparalleled. Begin perfecting the printing process now; your images are meant to be showcased in their tangible glory.
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