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Q Is there a *quality* difference between what you call "proof" prints and "enlargements"?
A Yes!
I know, I know...it's painfully confusing to understand all the nuances in terminology thrown around here so let me take a moment to clarify. Basically, proof prints are handled by the lab as being somewhat "rough" and do not undergo all the same quality control checks as do what are classified "enlargements" (aka "final prints"). This isn't to say that the *color* quality and characteristics is different between "proof" prints and "enlargements"...in fact, in terms of color accuracy and quality, the two types of prints are identical.
However, on major fact distinguishes proof prints from enlargements . . . options (i.e., "enlargements" have a tremendously wide array of options available in the finishing process).
For example, proof prints may only be printed on 4" x 6" paper, no special finishes are permitted, only standard lustre / glossy paper is available, etc.
On the other hand, final enlargement quality prints may: be printed on various papers (e.g., true B&W Ilford paper or metallic paper); be printed in various sizes (e.g., 8" x 12", 11" x 17", etc), utilize a variety of finishes and surface treatments, or perhaps be printed on canvas and mounted to a wood frame fro example. The options are vast!
Q Will I receive any enlargements with the event package I booked? If so, how many and of what size?
A Yes, in addition to proof prints, you will most definitely receive enlargements as part of your event package. The number of enlargements is dependent on the package booked with us (see our wedding / special event or engagement price pages for the most current info).
In terms of the size of the enlargements included with your event package, all such enlargements are printed on Kodak Endura professional paper measuring 8" x 12" or 8" x 10". As far as the two alternatives for enlargements, we recommend you select 8" x 12" prints in order to guarantee the original aspect ratio of the image is maintained; in other words, printing on 8" x 12" paper ensures that no portion of the image is cropped out / deleted. We only offer the 8" x 10" option because some clients have already purchased frames that are sized such and cannot accommodate the larger print.
A word of caution on this topic: Be aware that if you select a non 2:3 aspect ratio enlargement (e.g., 8" x 10") your image will be cropped to one degree or another. By default, we simply crop from the center of the image. This of course may cause the composition of the image to look "wrong" or otherwise not in harmony with the image as it was displayed in its native aspect ratio like you've been used to seeing via the proof prints, proof portfolio, and/or the online slide show of images. Put another way, by selecting the 8" x 10" option, you may very well cause key portions of the image to be deleted so just be aware of this when you make such a decision.
QI'm a paid client wishing to order my free enlargements. How exactly do I place such an order?
A Ordering the enlargements that are included with the photography package you purchased is a snap! All you'll need to do is take note of the exact image numbers of the photos you want enlarged and then simply complete our secure Client Enlargement Request Form.
Please note that in order to prevent fraud we will only ship the prints to an address that is already on file with us. Specifically, the addresses that are authorized include those you communicated to us via (a) our New Client Questionnaire, (b) the initial booking process & deposit payment form, or (c) the final account payment form. Again, as noted on the Client Enlargement Request Form, the address you provide must match up with one of the addresses previously on file with us; if it does not match up, we will attempt to contact you via e-mail and/or telephone to ensure that you are in fact making the request and that it is not some other unauthorized individual. If your address has changed since you originally submitted it to us via one of the previously described methods, please contact us, explain the issue, and we'll work the request out on a case-by-case basis.
Q My package has "X" number of 8" x 12" or 8" x 10" enlargements included. Am I able to determine which of my images gets enlarged or is that up to you, the photographer?
A You, the client, absolutely determines which of the digital images is printed on 8" x 12" or 8" x 10" paper. Basically, all you'll have to do is let us know which of the images you'd like to be enlarged and we'll make it happen.
In terms of a timeline for how & when that occurs, basically you'll need to wait in making that decision until *after* you receive the physical 4" x 6" proof prints in hand. We require you wait because of the massive problems relating to viewing photographs via a computer monitor (i.e., colors on monitors are not even remotely accurate to what is "real" unless you have both a rather expensive professional monitor as well as having that monitor properly calibrated with an external monitor calibration device and detector). So, to avoid the problems inherit in proofing via a computer monitor, we simply ask that you make your decision after you see a real proof print in hand.
After you make your decision as to which image(s) you want enlarged, simply place an order online and we'll have those shipped right out to you! It's as easy as that!
Q Do you have a "standard" type of paper that enlargements are printed on?
A I'm actually thrilled you asked. I can't even begin to tell you how many photographers cut corners, especially in the post-event phase, on rather critical elements of the photographic experience. Paper actually makes a far bigger impact on the final product that many people may believe.
As alluded to above, countless photographers prey on the ignorance of their clientele by utilizing paper that costs only a fraction of the "good stuff" that we pride ourselves in using.
OK, I digress. Back on point though, all proofs and enlargements are printed on on Kodak's professional line of paper, specifically Kodak Supra Endura paper. Available in a lustre finish, this paper provides consistent, accurate skin tones, accurate and saturated reds and yellows (perfect for flowers, bridesmaid dresses, sunsets, etc), and a wider gamut. Images just "pop" with this paper.
As a side note for clients placing an order for their free prints that are included with the package they purchased, be aware that although we highly recommend your enlargements be printed with a "Lustre" (aka, semi-matte) finish, you do have the option of requesting a glossy finish instead. To make such a request, simply select the appropriate preference button when requesting your enlargements via our secure form online.
Q Will you put a watermark on the images?
A Absolutely not! Please read our in-depth answer to a similar question contained on our F.A.Q. entry relating to watermarks and various other copy protection methods.
Q What types of mounting and surface textures are available?
A As noted on our a-la-carte pricing page, we offer a variety of mounting options as well as gorgeous surface textures to your final enlargement prints. As an example, here are a few images of the most popular options available:


