Digital BW, The Print

on 3/23/2002 9:54 AM, DigitalBlackandWhiteThePrint@yahoogroups.com at
DigitalBlackandWhiteThePrint@yahoogroups.com wrote:
Frank wrote:
> Message: 9
> Date: Sat, 23 Mar 2002 14:49:01 -0000
> From: "culturalvisions" <frank@...>
> Subject: Re: For Della On Shadows
> 
> In response to this antiquated argument, I have yet to see a
> silver print with the tonal range of a platinum print.  And I have
> seen lots of beautiful silver prints and lots of beautiful platinum
> prints.  The goal for me is not to make a digital print that imitates
> these.  In fact, an inkjet print looks more like a photogravure.
> 
> I have yet to see an apple that looks like an orange.  These are
> not valid arguments.  What is important to digital printers is
> making the most beautiful print we can with our chosen medium.
> This is also most important to platinum and silver printmakers.

Mike Wrote:
> I fully agree that Piezo technology is quitre good, in fact it has
> progressed to the point of being very good. However, as a member director of
> a Photography Center and Museum I must tell you that I have yet to see a
> Piezo print that can match the quality of a fine silver or platinum print.
> They are getting quite close, but there are some pretty good silver printers
> out there. I would venture to say that it will still be a while for the
> paper coatings and inks to be able to replicate the "glow" and lunminescence
> of a Michael Kenna or John Sexton print.
> 
> Just my thoughts my firnd.
> 
> Mike

Just my 2 cents:

My Piezo prints look better than any silver prints I've made, but only
because I have much more control over the image through photoshop than I had
with the enlarger.  I also have more skill with photoshop than with dodging
and burning under the safelight.

On the other hand, the Piezo prints just do not have the dynamic range of
silver prints.  I think that the biggest issue here is that the pigment
black is not black enough.  I suspect that if we could have a black ink as
dark as the Epson OEM black dye ink, ink jet B&W prints would rival
traditional silver prints and perhaps, surpass them.

Our "chosen medium" need not be limited to the subdued inkjet look.  We
should be able to dial in any look possible though skill, and choice of
paper and ink--in the ideal world.
 
-Bruce

Visit my website at:
http://home.earthlink.net/~smthopr