Sunday, March 6, 2011

My Photo Lab Search

(Click on the thumbnail for the bigger, better version)

Over time, I have tested a couple of photo labs, but those early results discouraged me. So much so, that I never really made a thorough investigation of possibilities. Recently, I began thinking, once again, about the option to send out printing. For one thing, I would like to test printing on various materials, but I am not interested in trying it at home. I think I have found my answer, Bay Photo Lab.

There are a couple of advantages to using Bay Photo. Because they are located in California, it means faster delivery. But, here is one of the best things about this arrangement: Their profile is so close to the one for my printer that I can print proofs on my home printer and get a solid reading on what adjustments need to be made before sending files to the lab. My first test order arrived quite promptly and, most importantly, I am happy with the prints. So far, so good. Next, I am ordering some samples on different materials. I will keep you posted.

8 comments:

  1. Very nice shot, Anita. I like the sweep of the needles.
    I've not heard of Bay Photo, but i will check them out. I have been very satisfied with MPIX in the past.

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  2. Ken - I certainly hope you will check them out. Having heard raves about MPIX, I meant to try both Bay and MPIX this round. I just happened to try the California lab first. With my limited experience, I may not be the most discerning person around. Therefore, I would welcome your comments on Bay's quality.

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  3. Anita, wonderful nature shot. I love the browns, greens and touches of yellow. I've used both Bay and MPIX and have found them very professional both in the way they treat their customers and their printing capabilities. I wouldn't recommend one over the other...each persons mileage may vary.

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  4. Earl - Thanks. I appreciate your input. I was happy that the prints matched what I saw on screen, but lack the experience in judging a lab's quality. This is very encouraging.

    Thanks also for your comment on the photo.

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  5. Bay has a good reputation, as well as West Coast Imaging. WCI has never let me down, but wouldn't hesitate to also send some work to Bay.

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  6. Mark - Thank you for another endorsement of my choice. I have heard great things about West Coast Imaging but had forgotten all about them. Thanks for the reminder. If things don't work out with Bay after all, I now have two strong recommendations to go to next.

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  7. Well, let me chime in and say that I am a person who knows nothing about any of the labs just mentioned, but I will say that I like the photo! :)

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  8. Paul - Thanks for the comment on the photo. This post was a hint to you to get some of those images of yours printed. Now you have suggestions on labs in case your printer isn't up to the job.:)

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Anita