Printers and Calibrated monitors!....

[PVO_Dave]

Not sure if this should be in this area - wasn't sure where to post it!

I've just got an item back from a local printer, and the images have come out really dark (well a lot darker than on my screen, and on the test prints I've done)

Before I'd seen them, he'd told me that some of the pictures were a little dark, but all printers are different, basically saying that it didn't matter how they looked on my screen calibrated or not..

I thought that was the point of calibration, that there was some kind of standard, so you at least had an idea how your work would look printed?!

If I had more time I'd order a copy from Photobox to check them, but these are Order of Service cards for my nans funeral for next Tuesday I've designed.

Any advice appriciated, before I ring the fella tomorrow

Not worried about having to use a different printer if he's talking out of his botty!

Dave.

 

[PVO_Dave]

Any one?! - Sorry to chase for an answer but I need to call this guy today

 

[Chappers]

Dave

Although I print most of my images myself, I have in the past used a couple of labs and had no problems, with matches.

Most good labs will send you a test file and print to make sure you get a good match with their system. Do you know what brightness level you have calibrated your monitor to. Most people use between 120-140 Cd/M2.

The problem is you have time against you. I think your only short term answer is to get the images reprinted. In the long term I'd look for another printer preferably one you can send a test print to or supplies a test image and print.

If it's any help I've had work done by ToggsPrint and was happy with the results. Loxleys also offer a good service and I believe still offer a service where they check the images to make sure they print OK. It costs a bit more though

 

[PVO_Dave]

Thanks Chappers.

I called him today anyway to say they were too dark - they seem to come out really red for him for some reason, never had this issue before when I've had photos etc... from Photobox, he's now done me 3 more copies to pick up tonight one at 95%, one at 90% and one at 85%

I just did the standard calibration using a Spyder3Elite - they look as I'd expect on most screens, so not sure why just with him I'm having this issue!

but then he also had issues with the JPG copy I put on my webspace, which printed perfectly on a home printer (he thought it was blocky etc... )

As you've said I'm a bit short on time on this occasion, the problem is you have to wait until you've seen the Rev / Reader to know the order of service before you can get them finished!

Thanks for the reply - will see what the results look like when I get in tonight!

Dave