Where to start ?

Peter Le

Ok so I want to open a pro account.....I went reading, but I think I just have to dive in....but still some questions. I do all my own printing on 100% cotten rag....so all my files are in aRGB, sharpened per size and this paper. I use a Canon 5D and work in 16 bit. I understand I have to convert my unsharpened masters to 8bit sRGB Jpegs. I don`t think I want to use SmugMug to print...at least not at 1st....but maybe later. My Questions....
1. Do I really want to upload my full size files...even as Jpegs quit large. Is it better to upload a smaller size and what ? 2. How do I go about sharpening because I am used to sharpening for size and use......both of these are unknown if I upload full size. I know I have to just open a account and try things out, but reading for a while and can`t find enough to start right.....Thank you for any help starting.......Peter

SteveM

Peter Le wrote:

Ok so I want to open a pro account.....I went reading, but I think I just have to dive in....but still some questions. I do all my own printing on 100% cotten rag....so all my files are in aRGB, sharpened per size and this paper. I use a Canon 5D and work in 16 bit. I understand I have to convert my unsharpened masters to 8bit sRGB Jpegs. I don`t think I want to use SmugMug to print...at least not at 1st....but maybe later. My Questions....
1. Do I really want to upload my full size files...even as Jpegs quit large. Is it better to upload a smaller size and what ? 2. How do I go about sharpening because I am used to sharpening for size and use......both of these are unknown if I upload full size. I know I have to just open a account and try things out, but reading for a while and can`t find enough to start right.....Thank you for any help starting.......Peter

Hi Peter,

1) If you're not going to make use of SmugMug for your print fullfillment, then you need only upload the largest size you'd like to display to your viewers, however, I think once you give our labs a try you'll be hooked. In that case, you still don't have to upload your full sized images initially. You can upload smaller (dimension) files, or files with heavier compression to lighten the (up)load, BUT, you'll want to keep the resolution at least the minimum dimensions for the largest print size you'll want to offer found here under 'Minimum Requirements' http://www.smugmug.com/help/print-quality , or the cart will not offer them as options. I hope that makes sense. Then, when an order comes in, use Proof Delay to replace the smaller, high compression images with full quality, lower compression images for the best print results. See #2.

2) We highly recommend Proof Delay. With Proof Delay, you can set a delay of 1 to 7 days before an order is sent to the lab to print. During that time, you can make changes to cropping, and even replace the files with your high resolution, retouched, specifically sharpened versions. For more info, check out http://www.smugmug.com/help/proof-retouch-replace

I hope this helps, Peter. Let us know if you have more questions!

Peter Le

Thanks SteveM.....I think I just have to jump in and see what happens.....thanks again.....Peter

?? High enough Res for the size of print.......at what ppi ?

rainforest1155

Peter Le wrote:

Thanks SteveM.....I think I just have to jump in and see what happens.....thanks again.....Peter

?? High enough Res for the size of print.......at what ppi ?

Peter,

Only pixels matter for us. Here's our minimum resolution requirement chart for each print size. Those are minimums for each print size. The higher the resolution, the higher the quality in printing.

Sebastian