Why Em J Photography offers Prints +digital instead of digital only packages
A question we often address here at Em J Photography is, “Why do we print?” We do understand that we live in a digital world and understand the value of digital images for online and social media needs. That’s why we include a digital copy with every print purchase. Something else we understand is that digital images don’t always last. They get lost on hard drives, or worse corrupted. They sit on a computer never to be seen or touched or looked through.
We love to create tangible, touchable, displayable, archival images that can be passed down through generations! I am the mom of 4 teenagers at the moment and even now, my kids love to look through the albums that I have created for them over the years. There is just something about holding memories in your hands or seeing them on display that is so much better at connecting with those memories and creating conversations.
Below we’ve collected some information on the value of print vs digital:
Printed images offer several unique advantages over digital images:
Tangibility and Presence: Printed images have a physical form that can be held, displayed, and passed on. They provide a tactile experience that engages multiple senses, allowing for a deeper connection with the image. The act of touching, feeling, and seeing a physical print can evoke stronger emotions and memories compared to viewing a digital image on a screen.
Permanence and Archival Quality: Digital files can be easily lost or corrupted due to hardware failures, software compatibility issues, or accidental deletions. Printed images, on the other hand, can last for decades or even centuries when properly cared for. High-quality prints made with archival materials can resist fading, discoloration, and deterioration, ensuring that the image remains intact for future generations.
Artistic Expression: Printed images offer opportunities for artistic presentation and customization. Factors such as paper type, texture, finish, and print size can significantly impact the visual appearance and overall aesthetic of an image. Artists and photographers can carefully choose the printing process and materials to enhance their creative vision and bring their images to life in a way that may be challenging to replicate digitally.
Visual Quality: While digital screens have improved significantly in recent years, printed images can still offer superior image quality and depth. Fine art prints produced with high-resolution printers can showcase intricate details, color accuracy, and tonal range that may not be fully captured or appreciated on a digital display. Additionally, prints can leverage specialized techniques such as metallic inks or alternative substrates to create unique visual effects.
Limited Distractions: Digital devices are often surrounded by various notifications, ads, and other on-screen elements that can distract from the image itself. Printed images provide a focused viewing experience, allowing the viewer to fully immerse themselves in the artwork or photograph without the intrusion of external distractions.
Alternative Viewing Environments: Printed images are not limited to screens or specific devices. They can be displayed in various settings, such as galleries, homes, offices, or public spaces, creating opportunities for different contexts and interactions. Whether as a standalone piece or part of a curated collection, printed images can have a significant impact on the physical environment and contribute to the overall ambiance.
While digital images have undeniable convenience and accessibility, printed images offer a unique and valuable experience that goes beyond the digital realm. They allow for a deeper connection with the image, offer longevity, provide artistic expression, and create a focused and immersive viewing experience. Ultimately, the choice between printed and digital images depends on the desired purpose, context, and personal preferences of the viewer and creator.
