Digital BW, The Print

definitively. Thanks!

Gabriel



--- In DigitalBlackandWhiteThePrint@yahoogroups.com, "Louis Dina" <lou@...> wrote:
>
> Frank,
> 
> Dmax is measured with a densitometer or a spectrophotometer.  Glossy 
> and luster papers have a higher Dmax, and matter papers have a lower 
> Dmax.  Some of that is due to the fact that glossy papers tend to 
> reflect back like a mirror, whereas matte papers scatter the light so 
> less reflects back to reach the measuring device.  
> 
> Even though the Dmax of a matte paper may be lower, it may "appear" a 
> lot darker than it is.  This is particularly true when framed and set 
> behind glass.  For matte papers, a Dmax higher than 1.6 is usually 
> good enough for a solid black look, but I prefer to get closer to 1.7 
> if possible.  When you get below 1.6, blacks can start to look a 
> little weak.  
> 
> Every paper its own potential Dmax, but this is based not only on the 
> paper, but the inkset used.   And even then, you need to get the 
> right amount of ink on the paper.  Too little ink will generally 
> result in lower Dmax, but too much can also cause fogging, pooling, 
> bleeding, and may actually cause the Dmax to drop too.  So, you need 
> to get the ink limit set about right for the best blacks.  The dither 
> pattern also has an influence.  Ideally, you want no white flecks 
> visible under a loupe, and you want just enough ink to give you the 
> best Dmax, but no more.  
> 
> For color profiles, there are also other considerations, and it is 
> often a trade-off.  Sometimes the highest Dmax can reduce the color 
> gamut a little, and sometimes maximum color gamut may slightly reduce 
> Dmax.  Sometimes, you are lucky enough to get both.  
> 
> Like most people, I test each paper using a specific printer and 
> inkset to find the best overall compromise.  For B&W, color gamut is 
> a non-issue, so you can shoot for Dmax without worrying about 
> lessening the color gamut slightly.  With QTR, you print a 21 step 
> grayscale and find the step that gives you the very best black you 
> can get.  It can be done by eye, but a densitometer or spectro is a 
> better way to nail the best settings.  
> 
> I have some matte papers that measure a fairly low Dmax (around 1.6) 
> but they look fantastic when printed.  I'd like a higher Dmax, but in 
> the final analysis, we are after a print that looks great and shows a 
> wide, smooth range of tones.  Surface texture, how the ink lays on 
> the print, and other factors come into play.  Dmax is one guide to 
> help us in the quest for better prints, but can't be taken as the 
> only measure, IMO.
> 
> Hope that sheds a little light on the subject.  
> 
> Lou
> 
> --- In DigitalBlackandWhiteThePrint@yahoogroups.com, Frank Jay 
> <frankjay02@> wrote:
> 
> >    
> >   Any help or comment that will give me a better understanding of 
> Dmax, be it measured or perceptual will be appreciated.
> >   thanks
> >   Frank
>