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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I order a test print online?

When printing a new image or if you are using Spectrum for the first time, we would recommend utilising our PDI test image and ICC Profiles for on screen check before printing but the best way to ensure accurate results is to test an image before committing to the final print.

You can print to any size on the Online Ordering Service and you may wish to upload a pre-cropped section of your image and order at full size to check before your final order.

If you want some additional editing assistance with your file you can also order tests via the studio.

Can I supply my own prints for print finishing?

Yes you can. We offer a wide range of mounting substrates and are happy to mount supplied prints. Give us a call on +44 (0) 1273 708222 or e-mail hello@spectrumphoto.co.uk with details of your project.

We can currently only accept C-Type (Chromira/Lambda/Lightjet/Polytronic) prints for Durospec mounting.

Do you offer discounts for bulk printing?

Yes we do! Please give us a call on +44 (0) 1273 708222 or  e-mail hello@spectrumphoto.co.uk to discuss your requirements in more detail.

Do you offer framing services?

 

We work with a sister company to help produce your vision. We do not offer single frames but can cater for exhibition enquiries of three frames or more.

Please give us a call on +44 (0) 1273 708222 or e-mail hello@spectrumphoto.co.uk to discuss your requirements.

Do you offer white label shipping?

Yes we do. Just leave a message for the team on your order (online – ‘optional message for the team’ – ‘white label’) or e-mail hello@spectrumphoto.co.uk and we can ensure your order is shipped without branding or paperwork.

How big can I print?

The largest C-Type print width we can offer is 1,220mm.

The largest Giclée print width we can offer is 1,100mm.

If you have not ordered with Spectrum before and are unfamiliar with our ICC profiles and print set-up we would recommend testing a section of your image at full size before coming to a large print.

You can see more about our calibration and download ICC profiles here.

You can see more about monitor calibration here.

How much will my prints cost to ship?

All print orders that can be wrapped in standard packaging are shipped via Royal Mail. For prints over 800mm on the shortest length we would recommend a courier service.

Packaging and delivery charges for mounted orders are calculated per order and are determined by the size and the individual delivery requirements for the order. The standard Online Ordering Service overnight delivery charge is £6.50 + VAT for P&P.

Discover more about our specific shipping cost turnaround times.

How quickly will my order arrive?

Online print only orders require two working days to complete. Online print and mount orders require five to 15 working days depending on the service selected.

Studio orders can take a little longer depending on how many tests are required but we also understand the importance of last-minute requirements and we work hard to ensure even the tightest deadlines can be met every time.

Discover more about our specific turnaround times.

How should I supply my files?

When using the Online Ordering System we recommend saving your final edited file as a high resolution JPEG for fast and reliable file transfer.

We recommend saving files to 300 dpi as a general rule but after extensive testing have found that optimum quality can be retained from print files supplied at 180 dpi.  If you are unsure we would recommend testing your image file.

You can also download ICC profiles and learn how to about calibrate your monitor to achieve the best results.

What ICC profiles should I use?

You can download all of our current paper ICC profiles and get tips on how to create your files from our ICC downloads area.

What is the best paper for black & white images?

There is no right answer to this question as paper choice is subjective but we would recommend one of the following papers for the best results when printing black and white images.

Hahnemühle Photo Rag (Giclée)

This is one of the world’s most popular papers and the valued all-rounder for high-quality fine art pigment printing. This paper produces deep blacks, striking contrasts and perfect reproduction of detail and is designed for fine art photographic and art reproductions.

Hahnemühle FineArt Pearl (Giclée)

The acid and lignin-free nature of this paper meets the most exacting requirements for age resistance and is ideal for printing high-quality black and white.

Ilford Smooth Pearl (Giclée)

This high-density, resin coated heavyweight base and smooth pearl finish eliminates glare and with its natural photographic white tint, produces prints with the true look and feel of a photograph.

What is the largest print size you can mount?

The largest print C-Type print we can print and mount is 1,220mm x 3,600mm.

The larges Giclée print we can print & mount is 1,100mm x 3,600mm.

The largest supplied print we can mount is 1,600mm x 3,600mm.

What mounting substrate should I use?

We recommend archival mounting for all artworks but we also offer cost-effective alternatives to suit all budgets.

For optimum results we offer Dibond, Aluminium or Durospec Perspex mounting. These options are all supplied with fixings. The Durospec mounting option is only available with C-Type papers.

An alternative method for mounting where fixings are supplied is the 12mm MDF. This finishing option comes with split batten fixings and is available with a black, white or raw edge finish. This option is not recommended when printing on fibrous Giclée papers.

For short-term display and for a more cost-effective finishing option we offer 5mm Kapamount, best suited for framing, 3mm PVC, available in black or white, and 2mm acid-free card.

You can see more about each finishing option here.

What paper should I choose?

Paper selection is purely subjective and can change the look of your image depending on the base white and texture of the media.

Click on the following links to read more about recommended C-Type papers and Giclée papers.

But you do not have to choose any of these.

Make an informed choice and select the media that is best for your image and your brand.

You can see our whole range of papers here. E-mail us hello@spectrumphoto.co.uk or call +44 (0) 1273 708222  for a complimentary sample pack of our fine art paper range.

What print service do I need?

I have print ready files

If your files are ready to print you can take advantage of our Online Ordering System where you can select paper, size, add borders and select finishing options to your own specific custom requirements.

You can download our ICC profiles to prepare your files for optimum results.

Our online ordering system allows you to upload 8bit TIF or JPEG files.

I would like some assistance to optimise my print files

You may need a complete editing session or just a quick check for peace of mind.

Our studio service allows you to work with one of our two master printers to achieve the results you envisage.

You can choose to come into the lab to sit with one of the team or we can work remotely and post test prints for approval before fulfilling the order.

We will transfer back your corrected file for your records and we can also archive the mastered image file for future print orders if needed.

E-mail us hello@spectrumphoto.co.uk or  call +44 (0) 1273 708222 us today to chat about your project.

Drop us an email or complete the form if you have any questions about our services