Giclée printing, a high-quality inkjet process, has become a popular avenue for photographers and artists seeking to reproduce their work on a variety of fine art papers. When considering giclée printing, the crucial decision lies in whether to invest in the equipment and learn the process in-house or to outsource the work to a professional printing service. This choice hinges on a careful evaluation of financial resources, technical expertise, and available time.
The primary advantage of in-house giclée printing is control. You have the freedom to print whenever needed and experiment with different papers and techniques. Beyond the initial investment and time commitment, the ongoing costs are primarily limited to materials and printer maintenance.
However, the drawbacks of establishing an in-house giclée printing setup are substantial. The initial investment can be significant, encompassing a high-resolution digital camera, scanner, a powerful computer, and the giclée printer itself. For large-format printing, this investment can easily reach tens of thousands of dollars. Furthermore, mastering color management and achieving accurate color reproduction requires a significant learning curve. Even experienced printmakers continually refine their skills. Color matching software can be misleading; precise color corrections demand expertise in color layers and Photoshop masking techniques, potentially requiring years to master.
Hiring a skilled color technician is an alternative, but experienced professionals command high salaries and can be challenging to find. Printer usage frequency is another critical factor. Giclée printers require regular use to prevent ink nozzles from clogging, which leads to wasted ink and maintenance costs. Infrequent use can result in significant ink waste and potential damage, as some printers require manual cleaning.
While in-house giclée printing may appeal to artists and photographers with ample time, resources, and a passion for the technical aspects of printing, many professionals find it more efficient to focus on their core creative work. Outsourcing giclée printing offers two main options: full-service companies and express services.
Full-service giclée printing companies provide comprehensive services, including scanning, color correction, and proofing. While this is the most expensive option, it is suitable for those who lack the time or expertise to prepare their files. These services often include setup fees and additional charges for color correction and proofing.
Express services cater to customers with strong color management skills and print-ready files. These services offer a cost-effective solution, utilizing the same high-quality equipment and materials as full-service companies. By preparing files in advance, customers can save on the costs associated with color correction and proofing.
Numerous online resources provide detailed information about the giclée printing process. By exploring these resources and carefully considering your individual needs and resources, you can make an informed decision about whether to pursue in-house printing or outsourcing.