Pricing Guides
- High resolution image capture of originals up to 60" x 120".
- Skilled imaging specialists to color correct and edit your work.
- Files archived for reorders and back up CD's provided.
- Giclée prints on fine art papers, canvas, aluminum, fabrics, mural wallcovering.
- Canvas stretching, gallery wraps and float frames.(View samples: 1 | 2 | 3 | Price List)
- Custom printed mats with designs or text.
- Certificates of authenticity and clear bag packaging.
- Short run note cards, posters and portfolio books.
- 35mm film slides of your artwork.
- Affordable custom framing packages for resale, exhibits, etc.
- Free website use to promote sales of your fine art prints.
- Marketing and promotional materials ? business cards, posters, post cards, flyers.
- Free order fulfillment, packaging and direct shipping to your clients.
Once you've made the decision to create giclée reproductions of your work, here are some important things to know.
Everyone agrees that the most critical part of this process is producing the highest possible quality digitized file of your work. The old computer adage, "garbage in equals garbage out" holds true here. Creating the best possible digital file of your work requires the skills of professionals who possess the proper equipment and expertise. Digital scanners and cameras used for fine art reproduction currently cost tens of thousands of dollars, although many technological breakthroughs have brought some of these costs down.Equally important is the specialized, filtered lighting used to properly illuminate artwork and capture the subtle textures and details as well as eliminating glare from canvas varnishes and glossy paints. You just simply cannot get the necessary quality from even today's 10-15 megapixel digital camera using flash or outdoor lighting. Remember that if you're competing in today's print marketplace, quality is essential.
When shopping for a giclée printmaker, its best to find a shop that does their own digital capture and printing.Prices for this range anywhere from $75 to $300 per image for color corrected, and proofed files ready for print. Some companies will waive this fee altogether with a minimum print purchase so you may need to weigh the pros and cons of paying a set up cost versus ordering more inventory than you need. Remember that one of the best features of the giclée process is not having to pre-print and pre-pay until you've actually sold your giclée. It does however, make sense to have at least one actual print made to put in your portfolio to use as a sample. Also, make sure you also obtain backup copies of your digital files for safekeeping. Don't let any printer hold your artistic property "hostage" in case you're not satisfied with their print quality. Make copies of the copies and store them safely.
Whenever possible, get actual printed proof copies of your work, printed on the canvas and/or paper type you intend to use. Don't be "fooled" by companies who don't provide this option. Every giclée printer attempts to accurately match your work, but depending on equipment, types of inks, papers and skill, it is not always possible to get 100% accuracy.This is often the case when attempting to reproduce one media with another, such as printing a copy of an oil painting with water-based, pigmented inks. The color range of the pigmented inks used in giclée printmaking is not always equal to the colors achievable with solid, pigmented oil or acrylic paint. Remember that the goal here is to create a saleable replica from your original that is an accurate as possible representation of your work. Seldom, if ever, will the original and the reproduction be displayed side by side. That said, a good giclée printmaker will have a great understanding of color control and correction techniques and should attempt to make any corrections as directed by the artist, until satisfied. Your printer should strive to establish a cooperative, working collaboration with you, understanding your needs and goals, and able to easily communicate with you in "non-technical" language.
Last, whenever possible, contact other artists who have or currently use a printmaker you are considering. Many printers, especially those only online, who might appear to be full service, or less expensive than others, may not provide the attention needed to "get it right". Paying for reprint after reprint may prove more costly than using a well-established company. A first-hand recommendation or warning from someone else's experience might be the best criteria for finding your ideal giclée printmaker.