Chapter 1: The Joy of Printing

Recently, while observing an 11"x14" print emerge from my Canon inkjet printer, I reflected on how this process helps me stay connected to my photographic roots.

Unlike the past, where I would hover over a tray of developing chemicals, patiently waiting for the transformation of blank paper into a tangible photograph, my current process is more technologically advanced. Now, I can wirelessly transmit the file from my laptop to an inkjet printer, which meticulously applies the image onto coated paper, dot by dot. However, the exhilarating moment of seeing the picture come to life remains unchanged.

In 2018, I attended Photoshop World as a journalist, where Scott Kelby, a prominent figure in the Adobe community, passionately discussed the importance of printing one's work. He emphasized five key benefits of this practice:

1. Differentiation: Printing helps you stand out in a crowded field; a physical print can leave a stronger impression than any digital file shared via email.
2. Connection: Holding a printed image enhances the viewer's experience, fostering a more profound connection to the work.
3. Impact: A large print, such as a 13"x19", leaves a more significant impression than the small images typically viewed on screens.
4. Value: If you'd be willing to invest $200 in a print to display in your home, how much value do you assign to the digital file saved on a flash drive?
5. Preservation of Visual History: Will our generation be able to preserve a visual legacy as rich as that of our predecessors?

This conversation touches on the essence of backing up one's perspective. Despite my long-standing advocacy for the importance of printing in the digital age, I often felt like a quirky character in a family gathering—well-meaning but seen as impractical.

Sitting in that dimly lit auditorium, with my notepad ready, I felt a surge of validation as one of the leading figures in digital photography echoed my sentiments. It was a surreal moment, reminiscent of a father acknowledging a point made by his child and saying, "You know, you have a valid point; I might reconsider."

Scott, like me, has likely faced resistance regarding the practice of printing digital images. Common objections include the high cost of ink, the unpredictable nature of printing, and the time commitment involved.

Consider the 20 minutes spent printing an 11"x14" archival piece in comparison to the time required to create other forms of art. How long might it take to produce a watercolor painting? Perhaps a charcoal sketch could be completed more quickly. And what about the time needed to sculpt a statue instead of capturing a portrait photograph?

In reality, a museum-quality print is one of the quickest forms of legitimate art creation. For many—including myself—this process is among the most exhilarating aspects of being an artist.

When I create a stunning print from a digital image, I truly feel like an artist, and, naturally, that’s when I experience the greatest joy in my photography.

Chapter 2: Embracing the Art of Printing

Section 2.1: The Artistic Process

content text here...

Subsection 2.1.1: The Emotional Connection