AboutSara Bella Expertise I can answer questions about most anything photographic. From film to darkroom to digital photography, from lighting to Photoshop techniques to digital work flow. I also know a great deal about the historical and theoretical contexts of photography. I am most familiar with Mac computers and the Adobe programs (Photoshop) but I can usually help troubleshoot any software and machine as long as I have the right information.
Experience I have been shooting photographs since I was 12 years old. I have a BFA in photography and and I am a current MFA matriculate. I teach photography at a university.
Education/Credentials BFA in Photography/Visual Articulation. In residency to receive MFA in photography in 2008.
Expert: Sara Bella Date: 9/5/2007 Subject: Digitial Photography Workflow and Printing
Question QUESTION: Sara,
My name is Kevin Handley and I have enjoyed photography for several years. I moved over to digital a couple of years ago. I would like to improve my skills and wanted to know:
1. Any recommended books on setting up a digital darkroom?
2. Recommendations for printer/monitor combinations?
3. Recommendations on how to get the color accuracy (currently printed photos look terrible so I go to the local shop or shutterfly, but still do not look perfect).
Any tips or direction would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Kevin Handley
ANSWER: Hello Kevin,
As far as a specific book on digital darkroom goes...I will need to know what program you are working on...what machine...printer...etc...before I can suggest a book. There are a number of great books that talk about workflow but each is specific to hardware.
And now on to my "opinions". I use Apple computers. I know there is a huge debate, between Mac and PC users, but I'm a Mac girl and will recommend Mac for working with photographs. Photoshop runs better on a Mac. There, I said it. And I stand by it.
Mac screens are superb, but for the price, you would expect it. An option that many of my peers have used in the past is to purchase a refurbished Mac monitor directly from Apple.com. I use an Epson printer because I like the color image quality.
Are you working in Photoshop? The reason your printed photos look terrible is probably because your screen is not calibrated for the printer. Calibration kits are very expensive, but if you are going to set up a proper digital darkroom, you will need to purchase one. I have a GretagMacbeth Eye One and it is fantastic. The other option is to work with your printer (the people who print your photographs) to calibrate your screen. Many printers will offer calibration tools at no charge. But this is only true of high end printers. Shutterfly might not offer this kind of service since they are relatively inexpensive. Are you going to be printing most of your photographs on your own printer or will you be sending them out? Once you know the answer to that question, you will know which direction to go for proper calibration.
The most important thing with a digital workflow is consistency. It is great that you are thinking about these things now...you shouldn't have too many bad habits to break. You will want to set up your working space (dependent on the printer you purchase) and work only in that working space. You will want to work non-destructively always, no exceptions. You will want consistency in your file naming methods. I could go on and on here...but instead I'll wait for your answers before I advise you any further. Are you working on a PC or Mac? Are you using Photoshop and if so, what version? To what level do you want to push your digital darkroom? High-end, low end? Do you have a strict budget to adhere to or do you have some wiggle room? With these questions answered, I can better advise you.
Sara
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: Sara,
Thanks for the response. Answers are:
Using Photoshop CS2
Inexpensive HP printer - works ok, but willing to replace it.
Using a PC with Sony LCD monitor
Would like to be "high end" but am also realistic
You did not ask about cameras or file formats but I am using a Nikon D200 and using RAW images these
Answer Hi Kevin,
From what you have told me, I am now quite sure that the issue is related to screen and printer calibration. You will also need to make sure you are working on files in proper working space. Color management is a very deep subject, but some basics...Your images should be set to Adobe RGB 1998, unless a printer has told you otherwise. You should convert the images to TIFF format from Raw as it preserves the most data. You may also want to use a custom proof set-up to view your images. This isn't really a subject that can be taught via email. There are too many variables.
I like Epson printers, and have had great experience with mine. Canon printers are also good. If you are happy with the performance of your PC and CS2 together, then stick with it. Sony screens are supposed to be good, but I have never owned one. I also use a D200, and CS2, which is what makes me think this issue is related to improper screen calibration. With the proper calibration and a high quality printer, you will be well on your way to a great digital darkroom. And when you have proper calibration, the combination of printer and monitor will be based more on preference than necessity.
As far as books go, I recommend getting a very in-depth Photoshop book. Amazon.com has quite a few great ones and you can read user ratings to see what other people have thought about the books. One that looks like it might be helpful to you is: The Photoshop CS2 Book for Digital Photographers (Voices That Matter) by Scott Kelby
