Guide to Purchasing an Inkjet Printer
In the world of photography, having a high-quality printer that can bring your masterpieces to life is essential. When it comes to photo quality printers, there are two leading brands to consider: Epson and Canon.
If you're a photographer who values portability, a lighter model might be more suitable for your needs. However, be aware that moving your printer around frequently could lead to supply chain issues, potentially discontinuing some models.
For those who prefer to make larger prints, consider a larger inkjet printer. These models tend to have larger ink cartridges, making the cost per milliliter cheaper for larger printers like A2. However, keep in mind that larger printers take up more desk space and are heavier.
When making a decision on a printer, it's advisable to seek reviews from other photographers. For instance, anecdotally, Epson printers may be more prone to paper jams and use more ink when switching from one type of black ink to another.
For home-based photographers who also need office features, the Canon Pixma TR8620 could be an ideal choice. This printer offers fast, high-quality photo printing and comes with a 5-ink system for natural-looking colours and sharp details.
If you're looking for an inexpensive A3+ inkjet printer option, the Canon Pixma iP8750 (or Canon Pixma iP8720 in the US) is a recommended choice.
For serious photographers seeking exhibition-ready prints, the Canon ImagePrograf Pro-300 could be the perfect fit. This pigment-based printer offers gallery-quality output with ten Lucia Pro inks and a Chroma Optimizer, making it excellent for black & white on matte media.
For those focused on matte and fine-art printing, the Epson SureColor SC-P700 delivers beautiful prints on matte and fine-art papers with impressive detail and tonality.
Professional photographers and printmakers seeking the best quality might want to consider the Canon ImagePrograf Pro-1100. This pigment-based printer sets a benchmark for photo printing with Lucia Pro II inks, offering speed, quality, and extended media support.
For traveling photographers who need a compact printer, the Canon Pixma TR150 could be an excellent choice. This portable printer is suitable for printing photos from 4x6 to page-sized prints, making it ideal for on-the-go photographers.
In 2021, these models or their predecessors were likely available, offering varying capabilities tailored to different photographic needs. When choosing a printer, consider factors such as lifestyle, budget, usage frequency, and preference for lab-made prints.
Remember, dye-based inks are suitable for displaying photos in a home setting, while pigment-based inks are more archival and recommended for fine art prints. Making big prints occasionally can be done at a lab instead of buying an A2 printer. For long-lasting prints, pigment-based inks are recommended, particularly for fine art prints.
Owning an inkjet printer for photography can bring a new dimension to your work, allowing you to create and share your art in a tangible form. Consider these options when making your decision, and happy printing!
Gadgets like the Canon Pixma TR8620, Epson SureColor SC-P700, and Canon ImagePrograf Pro-300 are examples of technology that can significantly enhance a photographer's work by bringing their creations to life in a tangible form. These devices offer varying capabilities, catering to different photographic needs, whether it's home-based photography, matte and fine-art printing, or professional-level requirements.
