Using a RIP for giclee printing
Whether you are looking to hire us to print your giclee or you decide to go in house, make sure Raster Image Processing (RIP)is used. A RIP is software designed to interface with the printer at a level not possible by just using the manufacturer's drivers. The advantages of using a RIP are many; you can print multiple images on a sheet of roll of media by positioning them in the RIP layout. This factor alone saves tremendous amount of money in paper. Second, some RIPs use proprietary ICC profiles that tend to give better tonal rendition than direct printer drivers. Also, color, gain and other adjustments can be precisely applied through the RIP. As this type of software is updated, new features are added, such as precise commands to be able to print an image in neutral black and white with some colorized areas. Another great feature of a RIP is the ability to simulate press colors by profiling the proofer and the press output. Any professional grade shop, whether it is in the giclee printing or pre-press business uses RIPs. Raster processing software does not come cheap. For a large format printer it will cost a few thousands dollars. Believe me, it is worth every penny!