Renaissance Press Photogravure

Digital Film

For those of us who have struggled to match prints to a monitor, I have information that might be a surprise and a relief.  It is impossible.  I cannot calibrate monitors made from different manufacturers to match each other let alone create prints that reflect light match monitors that emit light.    A photographer should be able to approximate what is seen on the monitor. It is impossible for a back-lit monitor to match a reflective paper print. I do not want to compare a print to my monitor or an inkjet proof and try to squeeze it into the parameters of a different medium. I prefer to be guided by the monitor and the experience of decades of study, research and print making. There is no best film, best inks, best conditions or best method of creating digital negatives or prints. Best practices are those that work best for you.

I began using and teaching the inkjet film system I developed twelve years ago. It is akin to developing your own film rather than dropping it off at a lab. The system incorporates Quad Tone Rip (QTR), a dedicated set of black and white Piezography inks, a measuring device and an Epson Printer. I did not invent anything. I simply put together what I thought to be the best components available to make digital film. The process is not terribly complex but does requires full attention. It does not provide a starter curve to be built upon or automatic calculating software. It does require the artist’s understanding of the process.  

In early 2018 my research assistant Svava Tergesen and I worked for five weeks testing a variety of calculators, equipment and methods of making film for contact printing in an attempt to simplify and enhance our work. We used densitometers, an i1 spectrophotometer, an old Kodak Model 1 densitometer ($40.00 on eBay), and a very simple gray scale visual comparator. The results were conclusive: There are many ways to get really great results.  It will never be as simple as editing an image, pushing a button and generating film.

Renaissance Press workshops comprehensibly cover the technique of making beautiful inkjet negatives and positives. The information is presented clearly and concisely. Detailed handouts accompany all workshops.  Post workshop consultation is readily available. Private workshops can be arranged throughout the year. 

 

CONTACT INFORMATION

Paul Taylor
renaissancepress@comcast.net
Ashuelot, NH 03441
tel. (603) 239-9990

Please note:  If your phone is not attached to a name or recognized phone number your call not be received.  Please send an email inquiry or request to be added to our phone list.

 

Contact Information

Paul Taylor
renaissancepress@comcast.net
Ashuelot, NH 03441
tel. (603) 657-6057

Please note:  Due to problems with telemarketers if your phone is not attached to a recognized name or phone number your call may not be answered.  Please leave a message if we do not answer!