I've never had one of my images professionally printed. I sent off a couple to Kodak, but I found the quality poor. Would someone be so kind as to tell me how to go about finding a lab to print for me. Thanks.
Posted by David Bostedo on February 13, 2007 at 6:48 PM
Zandall - A couple that have come highly recommended around here are West Coast Imaging and White House Custom Color.
I've used West Coast and was very pleased (but it's the only large print I've had made, but I've had a few smaller sample prints made). Others have gotten good prints from MPix, or Shutterfly, or Winkflash type places. But the level of knowledge, control, choices, etc should be better at the more professionally geared sites. If you want some place local, I'm not sure how to go about finding one - I couldn't. That's why I went to West Coast. If you search the archives here you can probably find other discussions and recommendations.
I'll add a third voice to the recommendation for West Coast Imaging.
-PB
Posted by Pat Warfield on February 14, 2007 at 1:26 AM
I have recently began using Full Color in Dallas. They are full service and very reasonable, too. After you sign up for an account, you can upload large files to their website. If they receive them by midday they usually ship out same day - amazing. Very good quality. Pat
Posted by Marshall Goff on February 15, 2007 at 7:35 PM
I've printed at several places. Been happy with Autumn Color (autumncolor.com), who are in Massachusetts.
Posted by Liz Masoner on February 17, 2007 at 1:37 PM
Mpix.com actually does a good job. But ProPhoto Imaging in Lakeland FL is my first choice for quality.
West Coast Imaging is highly recommended as has already been stated.
Also, with most of the pro labs, you get a price break if you send the file "ready to print." In other words, it must be profiled to their spec and they don't do any work on it. Otherwise, you pay them for doing all the PS work.
Lon is correct. At WCI you should download the profile for the paper you wish to use and then use that profile for soft proofing your image in PS. After doing all the 'pre-flight' PS work, including sizing and sharpening, you then upload your flattened tiff file. You then choose the paper whose profile you used for your soft proof when you place your print order.
Their website goes into some detail on what you must do to submit your file for printing.
Whichever lab you choose, be sure follow the directions carefully so that you'll get the best possible print.
I hope this helps.
-PB
Posted by Martin Beebee on February 21, 2007 at 9:33 AM
I've always been happy with West Coast Imaging, as well.
Discussion
10 replieshttp://www.westcoastimaging.com
http://www.whcc.com
I've used West Coast and was very pleased (but it's the only large print I've had made, but I've had a few smaller sample prints made). Others have gotten good prints from MPix, or Shutterfly, or Winkflash type places. But the level of knowledge, control, choices, etc should be better at the more professionally geared sites. If you want some place local, I'm not sure how to go about finding one - I couldn't. That's why I went to West Coast. If you search the archives here you can probably find other discussions and recommendations.
Guy
-PB
West Coast Imaging has a similar service. I have not used it, but I understand it quite reliable and turnaround time is excellent.
The info can be found Here
-PB
A couple additional "pro" labs come to mind. I've used both.
PhotoCraft
Calypso Inc
West Coast Imaging is highly recommended as has already been stated.
Also, with most of the pro labs, you get a price break if you send the file "ready to print." In other words, it must be profiled to their spec and they don't do any work on it. Otherwise, you pay them for doing all the PS work.
Lon
Their website goes into some detail on what you must do to submit your file for printing.
Whichever lab you choose, be sure follow the directions carefully so that you'll get the best possible print.
I hope this helps.
-PB