Recently, it seems everyone is wanting digital images vs. professionally printed portraits. I understand wanting to have digitals for social media and sharing capacities, but if you are planning on displaying portraits in your home, I highly recommend ordering the professionally printed portraits from your photographer and NOT a discount drugstore or online warehouse. Why?
The Problem with Digital Images vs. professionally printed portraits
My client ordered prints from a drugstore and not only did they not come back cropped properly, the skin tones were all over the place.
If you are investing in a professional photographer you’re not just paying for a print—you’re investing in a high-quality, long-lasting representation of your photographer’s artistic vision.
Professional Print Labs vs Discount Drugstore
Color Accuracy
Professional photographers use a professional lab that offers color accuracy, sharpness and detail and a range of high-quality, archival-grade papers that are designed to las and retain color over time.
Consistency
Professional labs frequently calibrate their printers. Discount stores often do not maintain this level of consistency, which can lead to variations in color, brightness, and overall quality from one print to the next.
Protection of the Photographer’s Vision
Professional labs respect the photographer’s work and will not apply unnecessary edits or auto-adjustments that can alter the original image.
Drug stores often use automated settings that can inadvertently change exposure, saturation, or contrast.
Longevity of Prints
Professional labs use higher-quality inks and papers that are resistant to fading, ensuring that the prints will last for decades without significant degradation. Prints from discount stores may not stand the test of time and can fade or discolor quickly.
At Jane Osler Photography + Creative, I use two labs: Millers Lab and WHCC to provide superior quality and timeless professional portraits.
