The first and perhaps most critical step in making giclée prints of your artwork is to create a “print ready” digital file. A “print ready” file is one that will faithfully reproduce your artwork without further adjustments. This is very likely the most technically challenging work we do at Grand River Giclée. It requires a substantial investment to get professional results. In our FAQ section, we offer some tips for photographing your own work to get “good enough” results. However, most artists find that the amount of equipment and technical knowledge that is required to get excellent results is more than they care to invest. It’s easier and more cost effective to have a professional service create their digital images for them.
Capturing Digital Images
There are two ways to capture a digital image of your artwork: it can be scanned or photographed. There are pros and cons of each strategy.
Scanning Images
Scanning can create truly massive and detailed digital files. This is one of its primary advantages. Most large-format scanners will scan at up to 1200 ppi, which would create a file that could be printed four to eight times the size of the original. Since every square inch is scanned, the larger the original, the larger the file.
When photographing artwork, the file size will be the same no matter the size of the original. This is limited by the resolution of the camera. For example, we currently use a 50 megapixel camera that captures a file that would print approximately 20×30 at 300 ppi. But we get excellent results printing at 150ppi, which would generate a 40×60 print. Practically speaking then, the resolution of our digital files matches the maximum capacity of our printers.
Availability of Scanning Services
The primary disadvantage of scanning is availability. Scanner prices increase dramatically with size. A scanner large enough to scan a 3×5 foot original will cost at least $50,000. We’ve seen prices up to $200,000 for even greater capacity. Because large scanners are so expensive, you can find scanning services primarily in large cities where there is sufficient demand to justify the investment. There may be others, but we are aware of only one other company in Michigan that offers large-format art scanning services.
Photographing Digital Images
Because the cost of establishing a professional photographic copy studio is less than the cost of a scanner, these services are more common. However, photographing artwork is a unique and exacting skill, so you’ll want to seek out a provider that specializes in this service. Not every professional photographer has developed the skills to do this work accurately.
Contactless Capture
Photography is contactless. That’s one of its advantages. Most large-format scanners have a glass bed that the artwork is laid on for scanning. This is not ideal if your work is textured or fragile. Some large-format scanners are designed so the artwork is laid face up on the table and the imaging head scans above the artwork, but these are not as common.
The method of lighting impacts the results of scanning and photography. When photographing artwork, two light sources are placed at 45° angles to the artwork. This creates very even lighting across the original that tends to smooth out surface texture. Some, but not all, large-format scanners can use directional lighting that can more easily capture surface texture if that is what you need.
Photography Cost
One final consideration is cost. Having your artwork scanned is likely more expensive than having it photographed. Most companies that offer large-format scanning will charge more for larger pieces and will have tiered pricing based on the resolution you choose. We charge a base rate of $50 for our photography and proofing service regardless of the size of the original.
Your Best Option
The best technology for creating digital images of artwork is a contactless large-format scanner that can use directional lighting to preserve surface texture when desired. But it is likely you’ll have to travel a bit to find a company offering this service.
In most cases photography is a very good alternative. It is more readily available, probably costs less, and, when completed by an experienced photographer in a well-designed studio, will create a file that can accurately reproduce your original. If you need professional photography of your artwork, contact us at Grand River Giclée. We will be happy to help you with your project.