Does anyone recommend a printing source?

I want to print portraits so that they look professional (even though I am not...just a hobby), but want to know where you pro's print?

Thanks for helping!
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Gina's_Sunshine

I use http://www.mpix.com for my portriats. They come in real nice packaging too that protects the photo (for passing on to your client or friends/family).

mpix Really can't be beat!

Thanks, can you help me with suggestions on what type of paper to print on for what types of things?
--
Gina's_Sunshine

sorry to nudge in on OP's thread but I have a similar questions... but for Australia?

mpix does not seem to post internationally, does anyone know of a printer either in Australia or who will post internationally with good rates?

TIA
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fallingphotogirl
Sydney, Australia

Ginas_Sunshine said:

I want to print portraits so that they look professional (even
though I am not...just a hobby), but want to know where you pro's
print?

Thanks for helping!
--
Gina's_Sunshine

Click to expand...

Ginas_Sunshine:

1. And, don't forget local sources in your area, such as Sams Club, Target, Walmart, and others.

2. Within, the past two years, most commercial sources within the United States, now have top quality equipment and services in place to render highest quality prints available and for prices that are very reasonable.

3. At the link, below, is an article from Ken Rockwell, on this very issue:

http://www.kenrockwell.com/tech/printers.htm

--
BRJR....(My cameras & lenses are listed in my profile)

BRJR said:

Ginas_Sunshine said:

I want to print portraits so that they look professional (even
though I am not...just a hobby), but want to know where you pro's
print?

Thanks for helping!
--
Gina's_Sunshine

Click to expand...

Ginas_Sunshine:

1. And, don't forget local sources in your area, such as Sams
Club, Target, Walmart, and others.

2. Within, the past two years, most commercial sources within the
United States, now have top quality equipment and services in
place to render highest quality prints available and for prices
that are very reasonable.

3. At the link, below, is an article from Ken Rockwell, on this
very issue:

http://www.kenrockwell.com/tech/printers.htm

--
BRJR....(My cameras & lenses are listed in my profile)

Click to expand...

Ginas_Sunshine:

I didn't check, with my previous Post, to note you are in San Antonio, TX. But, a Photography Teacher (who also does "Weddings Photography"), I know in San Antonio, TX says that of all places, "HEB" is excellent for high quality/professional prints and at very reasonable cost. You can check this out at any of their stores or their Web Site !!
--
BRJR....(My cameras & lenses are listed in my profile)

Thanks for the help! I guess maybe I am trying to find different textured paper that looks more professional than what I get from Ritz or HEB.
--
Gina's_Sunshine

MPIX has something like "Pearlescent Finish" paper. I'm not entirely sure if that's what they call it, but it has a Mettalic look to it. I believe they DO NOT recommend it for portraits though. I'll be using Wal-Mart for 4x6 shots, MPIX for 8x10 and 16x20, and El-Co Color Labs for 20x30. Never had an issue with MPIX or El-Co. MPIX has many other items you can have your photos printed on too. This Christmas I may give out decks of cards featuring photos I took. Smugmug has some neat items available too. Later.
--





http://allmeans.smugmug.com/

to buy this printer, and compare your Walmart prints

http://www.epson.com/cgi-bin/Store/consumer/consDetail.jsp?BV_UseBVCookie=yes&oid=63068700

Go for it..

Mike

Paper is simple...

For excellent B&W prints, the "true black and white process on Ilford paper" is spectacular IMO. Mpix and some other online services offer this as a great option. Personally, I find this paper best in glossy. But that may be a simple matter of taste (option would be matte finish).

For color prints, believe it or not most Costco locations offer very, very good quality. I've tested several local Costco's and found them pretty darn amazing. And (without even garnering my opinion), they recently LOWERED prices on enlargements. Used to be $2.39 for an 8x10 or 8x12. Now = $1.49 USD.

I would see if you could find a local Costco (if you have one, they are somewhat 'global') using a Noritsu 3411 machine. Mine uses the older 3111 model. Get the color proof Photoshop plug-in from the drycreekphoto website for YOUR location. The 3411 seems a bit better in detail and dynamic range. But not much difference unless putting the comparisons side-by-side.
http://www.drycreekphoto.com/

They use the same 'standard' Fuji Crystal Archival paper that many pro labs use. I think the Noritsu beats the AGFA printer and matches a Fuji Frontier in quality. Pretty much all the same resolution (I think300 dpi?). Just what my eyes like the most.

Oh yeah, the Ilford B&W process tends to lose about 2/3 to 1 full stop in printing compared to b&w printed on color paper (like Costco, Fuji Crystal Archival paper). But the increased contrast and deep blacks makes for fantastic portraits!

I started a post months ago about panoramic printing labs, and was fortunate to have some experienced members here chime in:
http://forums.dpreview.com/forums/read.asp?forum=1003&message=21655258

Some others may disagree w/ my opinions and experience. I'm not saying I am 'right.' Just my take on these things.

you may also want to try posting in the "printers & printing forum section
--
Cheers.
David
my flickr: http://www.flickr.com/photos/prodesma/