Digital Prints

20
Mastering Digital Printing
The author’s digital print, Pelican Jetty.
© 2001-2004 Harald Johnson
print production methods require the entire print run to be produced all at once. The result
is a pile of inventory that probably took a pile of cash to make (also known as the “Now
What Do I Do with that Stack of Prints in My Garage?” syndrome).
Consistency
Because digital source files are stored on computer hard disks or on other digital storage
media, they can be reused over time to produce identical results, assuming the media, inks,
and hardware/software have not changed. In theory, the first and last prints in an edition
of 100 produced over a ten-year period should look identical.
Storage
Related to the above, digital art takes little physical room when stored on disk. Digital files
can be long-lasting if the digital data remains intact and there is a way to read it. Another
benefit is for artists working with traditional media who can have their completed originals
scanned and stored for future use in print editions. Not only does this safeguard the
image, but it allows artists to sell their originals without having to worry about reclaiming
them later for reproductions.