The local processing lab that I have used in Ft.Lauderdale, Chromatek, uses a Lightjet430, and Fuji Crystal archival paper. I have been very happy with the prints that they provide, though they are a bit on the expensive side ($19 for 11x14). These are NOT the same people who screwed up my mounting!
Their info states that the paper is exposed and then processed in "photo chemicals." Is this a different process than typical printing? Can anyone give me any feedback on this technique and printer? Here is the web address for Chromatek:
The LightJet 'Digital Enlargers' use separate RGB lasers to expose Crystal Archive, which is a true photographic paper. The print is then developed in 'wet' chemistry, as prints were made in the days of yore. The process is done in a machine, and is automated, rather than using a simple tray or drum system.
I have had prints made by WCI using the LJ and Crystal Archive Gloss and Matte. They are gorgeous!
-PB
Posted by Mel Ladewig on March 12, 2007 at 1:59 PM
I have my 4X6 digital prints done on a Frontier "printer" on Fuji Chrystal Archive. Essentially the same method and they are also very nice.
Its a really neat system, but it seems like the operating cost would be much higher than other types of digital printing and that results could be affected by problems with chemistry and water temperature.
Discussion
2 repliesThe local processing lab that I have used in Ft.Lauderdale, Chromatek, uses a Lightjet430, and Fuji Crystal archival paper. I have been very happy with the prints that they provide, though they are a bit on the expensive side ($19 for 11x14). These are NOT the same people who screwed up my mounting!
Their info states that the paper is exposed and then processed in "photo chemicals." Is this a different process than typical printing? Can anyone give me any feedback on this technique and printer? Here is the web address for Chromatek:
http://www.chromatekimaging.com/
Thanks for the help!
The LightJet 'Digital Enlargers' use separate RGB lasers to expose Crystal Archive, which is a true photographic paper. The print is then developed in 'wet' chemistry, as prints were made in the days of yore. The process is done in a machine, and is automated, rather than using a simple tray or drum system.
I have had prints made by WCI using the LJ and Crystal Archive Gloss and Matte. They are gorgeous!
-PB
Its a really neat system, but it seems like the operating cost would be much higher than other types of digital printing and that results could be affected by problems with chemistry and water temperature.