Digital BW, The Print

Tom,

> I'm not sure which 16 bit problem you're refering to.  But, I've had some
problems with 16 bit images presented to >Imageprint as PSD files.  It seems
to be related to something that happens when flatten a file in PS.  If I
save the >same file as a TIF file, and print it with IP, I don't see the
problem.  Actually, the problem comes long before the >print.  In the IP
preview the image is almost obliterated.  I haven't contacted Colorbyte
about this because I just print >the TIF file.  I can't see any difference
in printing the TIF file vs. the PSD file.  I actually curious about this.
Maybe >an email to IP.  This only happens on grayscale files, not color
(yet).

The 16-bit problem I have comes long before the print, too. When I drop a
single layer (background only) 16-bit grayscale file onto the IP layout
window it is, as you say, completely obliterated; basically, it looks like a
Zone V gray version of my image file with some black dots running through
it. I've never tried to actually print it. I thought of trying it as TIF,
but haven't yet. I called Lexjet on this issue just this morning...they're
supposed to get back to me.

> As for the dot gain issue, are you saying that you change the working
space gray profile in PS depending on the >image?  I actually did try Dot
gain working space profiles at one time, but, I am happier with the Gray
Gamma 2.2 >working space profile.  It is just matching up very well with all
of the papers I use.  My monitor didn't just 'magicly' >profile itself.

In Color Settings, Gray working space I now have a custom dot gain curve
specifically for PhotoRag. The dot gain curves are actually paper specific
and not image specific. Once you've gone through the process of setting up a
custom dot gain it's used for all images printed on a particular paper. I
save the image untagged. Once it's dropped onto the IP layout window it's
using IP's color management which I have set to Gray Gamma 2.2. The
resulting print will not match the view in IP, but matches the PS view
exactly. If GG 2.2 is working for you, great. But, apparently some of us
have to go the dot gain or adjustment layer route. I felt more comfortable
with a custom dot gain having used the same technique during my Piezo days.
I like the fact that I don't have to think about "tweaking" the image in
order to match some memory of how my prints actually print, or having to
remember to turn on/off an adjustment layer and delete it before flattening.
Using a custom dot gain allows me to do my editing in PS as I would for any
image with the knowledge that what I see on the screen is what will be on
the paper.

BTW, I use a ColorVision Spyder and software to calibrate my monitor. I've
never used Adobe Gamma or any other visual technique to calibrate...my eyes
ain't that good anymore!

Alan Huntley