Getting pictures developed

Rgollar · Apr 12, 2012

My question is what is the best file format to send to get developed so you retain the best quality. I shoot raw but I that is not an option to upload. I use lightroom so I have there options to export just looking for the best format to develop to get the best quality. Thanks in advance.

tirediron · Apr 12, 2012

If you're sending them to a retail printer (Wal-mart, etc) than highest resolution .jpg. If you're using a pro lab, they should be able to deal with .tif files.

tirediron · Apr 12, 2012

Moved to 'Digital Discussion' as this is not a thread relating to a specific image.

Rgollar · Apr 12, 2012

Do pro labs do have better quality than say a sams club or walmart? If it does are there any recommendations. Thank you

Tony S · Apr 12, 2012

Pro labs have more consistency.... depending on the print sizes and papers you want, they mostly use the same machines, but most pro labs also keep their employees longer, train them better, have quality control in place, and maintain equipment on a better schedule.

As afar as getting prints done at a lab, they usually have an FAQ page that will tell you what format they prefer for printing. Often times you can also get the profiles to their printers so you can match things up.

Rgollar · Apr 12, 2012

Thank you Tony S you were very helpful.

KmH · Apr 13, 2012

Most online print labs don't want you uploading TIFF's because a TIFF's large file size quickly eats up the online labs storage space. TIFF's are about the biggest non-layered image files around.

A print made from a JPEG saved at high quality, is virtually impossible to distinguishe from a print of the same image made from a TIFF file.

At any rate, the print lab's RIP (Raster Image Processing) software used with their print machines will manipulate whatever file you upload.

Be aware that there are 2 main types of photo prints; C-prints (Chromogenic) and inkjet prints. Inkjet printer resolution is critial to print quality.