DFM Photography proofbooks will contain both film-based and digital-based proofs. None of the proofs have a logo or "Proof" on them. It's important to note that the main idea behind proofs is to show you the results from the wedding or event as quickly as possible. The workflow that generates the proofs and proofbook is oriented toward efficiency, whereas the workflow for a la carte reprints is oriented toward quality. Furthermore, software that is used to generate the proofs allows for more automation.
What this means is that proofs are used by DFM Photography and its clients as starting points. But they are very close in quality to the final prints. It is the final reprint that receives the highest degree of scrutiny by DFM Photography and the lab. The quality control that goes into the generation of all a la carte orders and/or reprints for the albums ensures that film-based and digital-based images are virtually indistinguishable. More about this, later.
Let's talk about more about Digital versus Film. To put it simply, both have their place. I hold the opinion that it is almost unthinkable for a professional photographer not to have some form of high-resolution digital image capture. Remember, scanners are a form of digital capture. I also think that it would be difficult to justify calling oneself an experienced digital professional without extensive experience with film. Recall that digital exposure techniques closely resemble those used when shooting slide film.
Why the dualistic approach? Both Film and Digital have distinct benefits and liabilities. Film is great when you need to capture high contrast scenes, or when you need some exposure latitude. Digital is great when you need to proof your work quickly and with accuracy. Also, it's widely accepted that a digital camera that captures 6 megapixels or more is going to rival a film-based image. These facts support my reasoning that a wedding and event photographer needs to use both film and digital. So what about output?
How does one get the reprints from the two different sources to look the same? The answer: Very Carefully. Every piece of hardware and software along the digital and film workflow must be chosen and managed carefully. It is possible to put a film-based reprint next to a digital-based reprint and honestly say that both prints look great. Will you see a difference? Yes, if you know what to look for. But, the difference "can" be negligible. More on this subject in the next BLOG. Stay-tuned.
