Digital BW, The Print

Kip,

> 
> What process do you use to decide how to adjust your images and/or
> printer settings for a new paper? 

I first determine what paper type setting gives the best dmax.  Then it's
just a question of getting the contras and brightness right with the
sliders.  The limiting factor is usually the separation of the shadow tones.
I use a 21-step test file for this.  These are posted at
http://home1.gte.net/res09aij/Test-files.htm . 
 

>   I've been using MIS EZ inks in a C84
> with great results for the past year, but have only used EEM.  
> Now I've picked up some sample packs from Moab and Innova, 

See my Readme file at http://home1.gte.net/res09aij/C86-EZ-UT-Readme.htm.  I
have starting setting recommendations for these papers.  I'm not sure how
they compare for the C84.  I have not found good C86 driver settings for
Moab.  It has the best ramp with the "Plain Paper," but it usually bands.
"Matte Paper - Heavyweight" is probably overloading the paper.  The best
image I've been able to get with Moab uses a curve that I also have posted.
If the curve is off, I also have a tutorial on making and adjusting these
curves at http://home1.gte.net/res09aij/EZ_Adjustment_Curves.htm . 

> and am wondering how to make the best use of just a couple of 
> sheets of a particular paper,...

I paste 21-step test files (one at a time) onto an 8x10.2 image, starting at
the top and moving down the minimum needed to avoid overlap.  This allows
efficient use of the full letter-size paper.


> Do you just print a small image and see how it looks, then make some
> adjustments to the print driver (which on the C84 offers brightness, 
> contrast 

Yes, these 2 sliders are the first ones to try.



>  and saturation sliders as well as C, M and Y,

C & Y can help with shadow separation.  See the PremierArt Hot Press slider
recommendations.


> I think I'd rather be
> able to print the same image on different papers just using different
> printer settings,


That is the goal.

Paul
www.PaulRoark.com