The Process

These photographs were produced via a relatively new carbon digital printing system. During an '02 sabbatical and after investing several months of frustrating research and testing, I settled on the most permanent inkjet process currently available that could closely mimic traditional chemical based imagery. Using readily available wide format printers, photographers are now able to produce truly spectacular images with an unprecidented degree of control, repeatability and image stability. This was only speculation several years ago.

Still wanting the option of producing traditional silver prints, I use conventional black and white film (Delta 400). Developed film is then scanned via a Nikon 8000 or Scitex Eversmart scanner and, similar to a traditional darkroom workflow, each image is processed using Macintosh computers and Adobe Photoshop. The files are then printed using Epson Stylus 3000 and 7000 wide format inkjet printers and, at the heart of the system, third partyPiezography/Pro24 printer software (RIP) and Piezotone B&W carbon pigment inks. I encounter no disturbing color shift/metamerism using dedicated B&W inkset vs. attempting to produce a neutral image via color inkset.

After researching practically all high quality inkjet papers for their image permanence, surface tecture, etc, my work prints are proofed on Epson Enhanced Matte and final prints are produced on Hahnemüle Photo Rag, Although not the panacea that many envision, I believe that the digital process, once understood, can provide a powerful tool that can support and extend one's creative vision.