What We Do

THE GICLEE PROCESS
Starting with the work of the artist or photographer, (which can be in the form of an original piece of art in any media or a photograph) we convert the image to a digital high resolution file. The image, viewed at the computer workstation, is color corrected and can be retouched as needed. Color, form, shade, intensity, contrast and brilliance are some of the many factors considered when working with the digital image. The images can be proofed on various types of printers and papers. The proof is the standard used at CHROMATYPE™ to determine how an image should look.
If the final piece is to be a limited edition giclee print, a final color proof is printed and approved by the artist. After approval, it is designated as a B.A.T. (from the French printmaking term ‘bon á tirer’ meaning ‘good to print’). This proof is initialed by the artist and placed in dark storage. It will be the print to which all other prints in that edition are matched. Using the B.A.T. as our guide, we proceed with the printing of the final giclee print.

Using a digital printer, the fine art print is created with archival inks and media. Visually this print has all the color and depth of an original by capturing minute subtleties and textures since the image is applied directly to watercolor paper, canvas, etc. As a final step, some artists enhance the finished piece with brush and paint, thereby making each print unique.
Since the prints are individually produced, costs are considerably lower than traditional printmaking methods . The size of the edition is determined by the artist (usually 200 plus the artists proofs) and each print can be accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity. Our fine art giclee print maintains its color and quality for 200 years-15 to 20 times longer than a traditional lithograph or watercolor, even when exposed to ultraviolet light.

For the photographer, the tonal qualities of the photographic print, once limited by traditional methods of reproduction, are given new life due to advances in digital imaging and printing technologies.

The prints can be matted and framed if requested. We then pack and ship or hold the print for pick-up at our studio.

THE BLACK AND WHITE PHOTO PRINT
Using a unique Quadtone ink set, (3 grays plus black) we produce stunning black and white prints that, to some, are reminiscent of platinum prints. This process uses patented software that expands the tonal range of each of the grays and the black. This continuous tone print rivals any print produced traditionally with the added benefit of an expanded tonal range and a large selection of substrates (watercolor paper, canvas, films, etc.) offering the photographer a photo print that often cannot be achieved in the darkroom.

Our extensive knowledge of the software (the “tools of the trade”) enable us to offer technical and creative assistance at every stage. We are also available to train the artist or photographer in the use of these 21st century tools.


All images are copyrighted 2004, clyde@chromatype.com