Over the last few days I’ve made about 20 prints. Frequently I’ve printed the same image on different papers with different finishes (e.g., glossy, matte) to see the difference. This approach will result in more than 100 prints being prepared, but in my view will incur a better learning experience.
I’m bumping into a combinatorics problem: in the printing process there are several decision points each with alternatives. For example alternatives lie in the different configurations of paper such as finish, material composition, weight among others. As with film, it is important to find and then stick with a choice so one can become familiar with the materials and improve the printing process over time. So, the end-game is to come up with the appropriate suite of materials (papers, inks, etc.) for my needs.
As I’m just beginning the project I don’t feel I have a full understanding of all the questions that will help me make those decisions. However, two questions are emerging:
- How long do I want the picture to survive?
- What quality of print is desired?
The answer to the first question determines certain requirements of paper, inks and framing materials. For example, if the goal is to have the photograph last 100 or 200 years then one must select archival-grade materials (paper, ink, matting, glass). On the other hand, a lesser goal can be met with a different choice of materials.
The second question will drive a different set of requirements of paper and ink. For example the colour gamut supported by the ink and paper, and the nature of the finish of the paper.
More to come.
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