#hi res 11×17 printing
6 messages in this thread
I'm looking for a service bureau that can handle 11×17 >>high quality<< output
for 3D Studio. Please respond to me here on CompuServe or fax info to David
Kandle at (704) 542-0339.
Thanks so much!
Lansing Pugh
I have gone through the gamut of hardcopy options the last few months. I can
share a few of my experiences:
The Best: 4×5 Fire Film recorder (Image cost $150 for 11×17), 98 meg file.
Detail and color in this format is _stunning_.
Almost Best: 35mm Film Recorder (Image cost $40 for 11×17), 18 meg file. Detail
is not quite like the 4×5, but color is just a good.
Next Best: Kodak DyeSub Printer (Image cost $25, 10"x10" max size) 12 meg file.
Next Best: Iris Printer (Image cost $35 for 11×17) 18 meg file.
I would stay away from the Canon Color Lasers, their color is not that great.
This could be due to operator incompetence as well.
Check with your local film processing lab for film recorders. Mine has 35mm and
4×5 as well as the Kodak Dye Sub here in Nashville.
Another issue of much discussion, Gamma. I know that the book suggests 1.0 for
output to a linear device (printer), but I have the most consistent WYSIWYG by
using 1.25 for everything that goes to hardcopy. It is whatever works best for
you. When trying a new printer, I render the scene 4 times with different Gamma
settings, usually 1.0, 1.25, 1.35, and 1.5. I take these 4 images and paste
them up into 1 image in PhotoShop. This allows me to see the Gamma results all
on the same print (saves money too!!).
I must send Colorado tapes to Atlanta if I want the Iris prints. BTW, the Iris
can do very large prints….don't get them wet though!!
If you strike out locally, I can send you my contacts. You can also look in
the back of PC Graphics & Video for service bureaus.
Good Luck!
Mike
If you look on the color plates of the Reference Manual, you'll see in the
comparison of the umbrellas that we used much the same method and ended up
using 1.8 gamma. I mention this as a recommendation that you expand your gamma
test range beyond 1.5 for print work.
– Jack
Jack:
I find that most of my images, which are probably darker than most, get too
"washed out" in color saturation when I go above 1.5. I personally do not like
the look of higher gamma. Maybe I should adjust lighting 🙂
The plates in the manual look great though!
Like I said (without trying to start yet _another_ gamma discussion!), what
works best for your setup/output/expectations is the best guideline I could
give.
Mike
Mike:
Thanks so much for your tips on high quality 11×17 output! I'd like to take
you up on your offer to share your recommendations on service bureaus capable
of very good to excellent 11×17 prints, regardless of their location in the
U.S. Anybody else out there is encourage to contribute their favorite service
bureau. Thanks!
Lansing
Sure! Hope this helps.
4×5, 35mm, Kodak Dye Sub available from: Chromatics (Digital Dept.)
615-254-0063. Nashville
Iris Prints (and many more) available from: TR Graphics @404-633-8335. Atlanta