Cutters and output trays
When using roll paper, it is important to cut precisely to ensure
consistent print sizes. Many professional printers feature
built-in cutters that either manually or automatically
splice the paper at the correct position. Output trays are
present on many large-format models to support new
prints, and prevent dust contamination and creasing.An internal
hard drive
Since professional
cameras often
produce files
of 50MB
and larger,
transferring
files to and
storing them on
built-in memory
can vastly
increase print
speed, since the
data does not have
to be passed through
a cable or wireless
connection. This is a
less common feature,
but where present
consider temporarily
copying files you
expect to print often
after a shoot.Black output
The best photographic printers feature an extra cartridge, often
called ‘photo black’, in addition to a standard ‘matte black’ slot.
These can be changed depending on the print media – photo black
for glossy and satin papers, which have lower absorption, and matte
black for more textured, less reflective media. This separation
enables custom rendering of true black values in photo prints.Conclusion
If you’re to invest in an A3 or A2
printer, it pays to choose a model
with tools designed to streamline
your everyday professional
workflow, and make printing as
simple and attractive as digital
output for you and your customers.Interface and
connectivity
Advanced printers often feature full
on-unit controls for changing parameters,
which can be quicker than working
with the menus of bundled software on
a computer. Touchscreen interfaces
are becoming increasingly common,
providing easier navigation. While Wi-Fi
is present on most modern printers, this
isn’t critical on pro photo models as wired
image transfer is faster and more reliable.Print speed
The faster the print
speed the more
images can be
outputted in a given
time, increasing
potential revenue
per hour. While
standard photo
printers can have an
output of around 15
pages per minute
(ppm), expect
A2 models and
larger to take
around two to
six minutes to
print a high-
quality, full-
bleed image.Rollers
Large-format printers often accept
roll paper. While more expensive than
pre-cut sheets, a roll of paper allows
custom layout of images, maximising
area usage and minimising wastage.
This makes the operation of the printer
highly efficient, saving significant
outlay across years of professional
usage. Commonly pro
printers can be reset for
single-sheet printing
when required.If you own a high street photo studio, you will
likely need your own printer. While large printing
jobs can be outsourced, for smaller scale
batches, such as for a main wedding album, it’s
often more convenient to print in-house. For the
highest quality image output and for greatest
IdentIfy pro
prInter features
Look for these essential tools when selecting a top-level printer for your business
efficiency, it is critical to invest in the advanced
features of a professional-specification printer.
While some provide superior print texture,
longevity and colour fidelity, others serve
handling, ease of control and print through-put.
Although these features come at an increasedinitial cost, they will drive the effectiveness of a
small business and over time can actually offer
reduced operating costs.
Printing is still a key part of a professional’s
workflow, so ensure your printer can match
your camera for quality and versatility.prInT & ShAre