Think Ink: Buyer's Guide To Inkjet Inks
Often overlooked, printer inks are a key component of the digital darkroom
When
shopping for a photo printer, you'll probably consider physical
dimensions, print speeds, resolution and droplet size, plus extra bells
and whistles such as a built-in card reader and LCD, all of which are
important. Some of these features enhance the usability of the printer,
while others affect print quality.
Just as essential are the inks you use with your printer. Inks aren't
particularly sexy or alluring like that sleek and shiny printer, but as
with the paper you choose, they have a dramatic effect on the look and
longevity of the prints you'll make.
While you'll see great results by using the recommended inks for your
printer, there's also a selection of high-quality inks available from
third-party ink manufacturers. In some cases, these alternatives may be
cheaper, more advanced or have other benefits.
The Essentials
As you browse through the vast selection of inkjet inks, you'll notice
that some are dye-based and others are pigment-based. The basic
differences between the two are a result of their chemical make-up.
Pigment-based inks are comprised of microscopic grains of color that
can't be dissolved in liquid, so they just float around in a state of
colloidal suspension. Pigment inks traditionally have had a subtler
color palette with slightly lower contrast. The upside is that pigments
are known for being resistant to damage and fading caused by exposure
to light or humidity. They're estimated to last in the hundreds of
years. For some subjects, especially when combined with archival
artistic papers, the effect might be perfect.
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