What Do You Do For Printing?

Scootersbabygirl

I'm just getting started doing this semi-professionally (by this I mean I'm actually going to get paid for portraits and stuff - yikes!) and I'm at a total loss when it comes to the printing.

Do I let people print the photos themselves, or do I print them for them online?

One of the things that I'm really confused about is the sizing. I know, for instance, that a 4x6 is a differently sized photo than an 8x10, and that if they try to make a photo that is the size that comes out of my digital into an 8x10, something will have to be cropped. So having them print them themselves may cause a problem, right?

GAH! Please help! How do you handle your printing?

Sam

Don't take this the wrong way but I think you need to back up a little before charging anyone. The aspect ratio of an image isn't even the tip of the printing iceberg.

I would highly recommend learning about image prep, color space. bit depth, ICC profiles along with the multitude of printing options available today.

Your clients will be looking to you for guidance and answers.

How long it takes you you learn this is up to you, but will be invaluable.

Sam

Cygnus Studios

Scootersbabygirl wrote:

Do I let people print the photos themselves, or do I print them for them online?

I personally like to have the prints done myself, and then sent or shown to the clients. If you go with a pro lab such as Bay Photo you are almost guaranteed great prints, however you are the one that is responsible for the quality of the image. It is far easier to fix the issue with a printer versus fixing a problem with a client.

ShepsMom

I do too like to provide prints myself. I must see their reaction when delivering prints, of course, if they're in town.

Art Scott

99.9% of my prints are self delivered.......I do offer prints thru a foreign processor for friends and clients not in the U.S. ......but for my local clients it is self fulfilment which I find keeps me in touch with clients and get refers due to my personal touch..........