In August 2007, Acadian Imaging made a move away from traditional print labs into the world of fine art inkjet printing (though we still use labs for certain projects). This meant several things for our clients:

• Slightly longer turnaround time as each print was meticulously produced in a workflow not unlike traditional darkroom printing.
• Higher quality papers and inks resulting in better prints with greater archival quality.
• Ultimate control over the process — no need to worry about how a lab tech might try to “improve” our work.

Now, after about six months, we are ready to take the next step toward printing perfection. Previously, we offered our clients a wide range of paper choices in three different grades: Standard, Premium, and Fine Art. As of March 2008, we are phasing out the Standard and Premium papers.

Why?

Though many reasons exist, two major reasons come immediately to the fore.

First, the landscape of inkjet printing was changed back in October when Epson released a new paper called “Exhibition Fiber.” Developed by Epson over a number of years with the counsel and assistance of many old school pro photographers, Exhibition Fiber seeks to mimic traditional, air-dried F surface prints. Prior to Exhibition Fiber’s introduction last Fall, there were qualities in inkjet printing that still didn’t quite match their chemical counterparts. Now, however, Exhibition Fiber meets or exceeds the standards of quality of those old school photographic papers.

Here are the brief specs for Exhibition Fiber:

Surface Finish:	Gloss
Weight:	325 gsm
Thickness:	13 mil
I.S.O. Brightness:	111%
Whiteness:	147%
Base:	Fiber
Other:	Acid & Lignin Free

This is a thick, heavy, white, slightly glossy paper that produces beautiful results both in color and black and white.

The second major reason for moving away from lesser quality papers is our commitment to providing the best possible prints to our customers.

In addition to the Exhibition Fiber Paper, mentioned above, Acadian Imaging will continue to offer Velvet Fine Art as a less traditional paper option. This paper is a 100% cotton rag with a slightly rough surface, which gives prints a timeless quality. Here are the specs:

Surface Finish:	Matte/Velvet
Weight:	260 gsm
Thickness:	19 mil
I.S.O. Brightness:	94%
Opacity:	97%
Base:	100% acid-free cotton rag
Other:	Acid & Lignin Free

If you’d like more information about prints and pricing, please refer to the photo portion of our website, or contact us.