I've been using TDK paper in my Epson 2100 for about a year but haven't
yet
found any print life tests for this combination on the web.
Anyone got any advice on how to do this myself....
Do I just put a print on a window sill or is there a better/faster way
using
a lamp?
Should I set up a control using the same print on Epson paper? Which?
Is there a standard test image to use?
Using the same image with a variety of paper/ink combinations should
give a guide to longevity. Lamps with a high UV content, sun tan lamps,
are expensive to run 24/7/365. So use sunlight, south facing window
ledge. There are professional images which provide a wide range of
calibrated colour values including skin and pastel tones. They are
expensive, you photograph them, then can calibrate the whole image
reproduction process. Pastel and skin tones are part of the longevity
issue, since they tend to suffer before the more saturated colours.
There are Excel based programs to determine what is happening.
The value for each color in each batch of targets is published by
Kodak, and used as one input to the program. Another factor in
longevity is what the print comes in contact with, not just light
exposure. Plastics leach solvents and plasticisers, paper and
card may have a chloride (bleach used to produce white paper)
content. It's a complex (and interesting) subject.
Google for
KODAK PROFESSIONAL Q-60 Targets
The KODAK PROFESSIONAL Q-60 Targets are available on KODAK PROFESSIONAL
EKTACHROME Film in both 35 mm and 4 x 5 inch formats and on color paper.
Developed primarily for use by prepress houses in the printing industry,
this target can also be used by professional photographers, desktop
publishers, and in the emerging hybrid imaging area.
