ACME etal - FAQs
- How can you charge $50 for such a high quality digital file?
Our workflow is so efficient, it takes a similar amount of time to prepare a small artwork as it does a large one. Working out prices by megabites causes headaches and arguments! We like to keep things simple. - What services do you provide?
The bulk of our work is giclée fine art paper prints, photographic prints, canvases, scanning of artworks and film, file preparation, image restoration. We also arrange stretching and framing at reasonable rates. - Do I need to make an appointment?
Yes. So we can ensure we are in the studio and don't miss any of your details. - How do you maintain such high printing standards?
We work closely with each client to achieve their individual needs. We build a relationship with most clients that allows; each client to better understand the entire workflow, technical feedback to be discussed in both directions, and consistent results to be achieved that are true to the original artwork. - What is a Giclée print?
The word Giclée (said Zhee-clay) is a French word meaning fine spray. It refers to a print of the highest quality pigment ink-jet process, that offers archival qualities without bleeding or fading. The Giclée process is digital printmaking with an ink-jet printer, using a minimum set of 10 inks that places minute droplets of ink to create prints that cannot be duplicated by other printing techniques. Because there is no visible dot screen pattern, the resulting image has all of the subtle tonalities of the original. In order to achieve a faithful reproduction of artwork: A three part workflow must be adhered to; 1. A high resolution digital file generated directly from the artwork using a high quality capture device, 2. An ink-jet printer with a minimum set of 10 pigment inks, 3. An archival substrate. The accuracy of colour, tone and detail is reliant on the technical skills and knowledge of the technician, particularly at the point of artwork capture. - How does ACME work?
The workflow at ACME uses both a Hasselblad scanning and photographic system, a printer with an 11 pigment based ink-set and the highest quality archival papers available. We offer papers and media that match artists originals, be it hot pressed or cold pressed papers, canvas or other... With 26 years experience reproducing oil paintings, watercolour and finely detailed works on paper, we've come understand the importance of this workflow, how it affects the reproduction of your work and can achieve the highest quality reproductions, prints of your digital creations or photographic works. If you have any questions regarding our reproduction process, please feel free to give James a call on 0418300394. - Who prints my artwork?
James our Master Printer. James has worked as a photographer and specialist photographic printer for more than 30 years. James co-founded ACME Black + White in 1995 after many years as principal photographer at the Aeronautical Research Laboratories. He has been involved in digital photography from the early 90s and has experienced the incredible advances in this form. This has given James a comprehensive understanding of colour control, premium output media, and producing optimum results. His critical eye for colour and detail has won him the respect of many within the industry. - Can you print from files I supply you?
Yes, please be aware that without the original artwork we cannot guarantee the same colour accuracy in your reproduction. - How do I get my artwork/files to you?
In person, via email, post, dropbox or we transfer. - How should my files be saved before sending them to you?
100% of your ordered print size. AdobeRBG, 300dpi and saved as a tif file. - Do I get a test print to approve the colours?
With every new scan. It's critical for you and us to be sure you are getting the right reproduction. - Do you print cards?
Yes, we offer fine art giclée artist cards and digitally printed cards. Both are supplied with matching envelopes. Visit our Prices page for more details. - Do you provide a delivery service?
We can. We do a weekly round trip to Melbourne, and can arrange to collect or drop off on the way. We also post world wide. - Do you archive files for future reference?
Yes. We automatically backup all jobs unless you request us not to do so. A minimal search fee will occur if you require the return of your file older than 24 months. - What method of payment do you accept?
We accept major Credit Cards, Paypal, Bank Transfer (EFT), Cheque and Cash. Full payment is required on pickup. We do not have accounts. - Where are you located? On our farm, in Steels Creek Victoria. 40km North of Melbourne in the Yarra Valley. We'll give you more details once you have arranged a time with us.
