Each print is personally approved prior to sale and in each one I endevour to catch that special moment in front of the camera. I do not process my images to add intense colours or unrealistic drama, but merely 'tweak' the RAW image to match as closely as possible with the view I witnessed on the day. Each digital file, if using the RAW file format, benefits from subtle enhancements to achieve the true colour and tone in each print, just as in traditional printing methods, where various methods are employed to provide the same affects.

The colour and drama comes from nature itself. Waiting for the light brings its rewards. My aim is to capture that moment on the digital sensor in just the same way as in the past I have captured the scene on film. Once the file is 'in the can', it is the ability of the computer software, inks and paper (read digital workflow know-how!) that enables me to match them on print.

Please note: The colours may differ slightly from what you see here if you do not have a colour calibrated computer screen. My hardware is calibrated to make sure what I see on the screen, I can match on a print.

When you purchase a Fine Art Limited Edition print from Mark Hughes Photography you are purchasing an item that will last.

This section highlights the methods and materials used for my Limited Edition prints.

Printer

Epson R2400 Printer

The Epson Stylus® Photo R2400 printer, coupled with its innovative ink technology, offers professional and fine art photographers the most advanced ink jet technology available to date. The Epson UltraChrome K3 pigment ink set ensures both a wider color gamut and superior black and white output with print permanence ratings that are perfect for gallery exhibits. With three levels of black and advanced driver controls, the Epson Stylus Photo R2400 enables users to create professional-quality prints on a wide variety of media.

Inks

Epson Ultrachrome K3 Inks
I only use the very latest Ultrachrome K3 inks from Epson.

The Ultrachrome K3 inks use 8 seperate ink colours to provide stunning colour saturation and image detail with lovely smooth tonal gradations.

Epson's groundbreaking UltraChrome inks perfectly combine the benefits of dye based and pigment inks. The inks are extremely resistant to light and water and give an incredibly broad spectrum of colours. The UltraChrome ink set comes in 8 colours, including two black ink types. The standard photo black ink is replaceable with the optional matte black ink for outstanding quality on all matte papers. Perfect for professional and semi professional photographers alike, UltraChrome inks produce the optimum results for colour as well as monochrome.

Ideal for photography and graphic art applications, Epson UltraChrome Ink offers a superb colour gamut which approaches that of dye ink, but with the water and fade resistance of pigment ink.

Papers

Epson Archival Matte
This paper-based matte media is for use exclusively with pigment ink. It is this fact that attracts many professionals who have been waiting for this type of paper. Epson Archival Matte Paper (sometimes known as Enhanced Matte) has a permanence rating of over 60 years under glass. (Based on lightfast ratings from Wilhelm imaging research).

Epson Velvet Fine Art
Artists and photographers require a variety of media surfaces for their professional work. Epson Velvet Fine Art Paper has a base that is 100% cotton rag, buffered and acid free, this paper is coated with Epson's popular Enhanced Matte coating, giving exceptional color gamut and high D-Max. The velvet surface is a favorite of photographers and artists alike, offering a unique museum quality feel. Combining impressive fine art cotton with Epson technology has created a paper that will be a classic for years to come.

Epson Velvet Fine Art Paper has a permanence rating of over 60 years under glass. (Based on lightfast ratings from Wilhelm imaging research).

Suitable for Exhibition Quality Prints.

Looking after your Print

The life of a print is affected by a number of factors. This page gives some tips on how to provide the best conditions for showing off your new photographic print.....

Print Media & Materials
Both Ink and Paper are VERY important factors on the estimated life of a print. My prints use Epson Ultrachrome K3 inks and Epson Archival papers which estimate print lives to over 60 years. These are not the figures from Epson but an independant body called the Wilhelm Institute in Iowa. Pioneering research using accelerated exposure to light, Wilhelm has found some surprising results. Top of the list for non-fading materials is Epson media and pigment ink.

Compared to traditional silver halide colour prints, such as the Fuji Crystal Archive paper range with an estimated life of 40 years, the new digital materials are well on their way to extending the archival properties of photography.

Storage Conditions
Just like traditional prints, digital prints are susceptible to damage from environmental conditions. Top of this list is light, both natural and artificial, which can reduce the lifespan of your prints if the exposure is excessive. Never display your print in direct sunlight.

Atmospheric pollutants can also take their toll, with exposure to ozone creating the biggest threat to your print. If the print is to be displayed, ideally you need it to be housed correctly in a sealed frame. Try to ensure the print does not sit directly against the glass of your frame, as condensation and humidity could result in damage to the print surface.

Mounting Materials
Always aim to use acid free mounting materials - as they would be mounted for exhibition display.
By using two identical sized mounting boards, one with a cut window the other a solid back, the window mount will hold your print in place without the need for adhesives.

Holding Prints in place
Mounts can be used to locate prints as mentioned above.
Another method is to use Acetate photo corners underneath a window mount. These will keep the print in exactly the right place whilst also protecting it.
Acid-free linen hinging tape is another method to hold your print in place.

Adhesives, Sprays, Glues
These are very bad news if you want to ensure the maximum lifespan of the print. The chemical substances within the adhesives can potentially react with the print paper and inks - so its best to avoid them at all times.

Your Local Gallery
Of course, your local Gallery or Art supplies shop will be able to help with all of the above and will be able to supply the recommended materials.

I hope this information has proven useful.