articles/Photofinishing/leeandoldfield-page2
by Tom Lee Published 01/06/2007
Once an order has been compiled, the client studio has an option to save or proceed with the order. Having placed our order, we proceeded to the factory floor where the ROES order was printed out via an automated server with the studio/photographer's reference and order particulars on separate sheets.
If the order stipulates colour correction then an operator picks up the files from the server and makes the colour corrections prior to allocating them to a print queue on one of several machines, based on size and print type. Once the order has been printed then the work is passed down the workflow to the finishing area based on mounting and laminating requirements, followed by packing and posting. All ROES print orders up to 12", and received by 1pm, are despatched on the same day. Altogether it is a very slick and efficient system.
During the tour we were shown how the album products were composited including the press that keeps the bound album under pressure for several days. The Bellissimo albums have proved to be a real hit with brides and photographers.
All that remained to top a busy and interesting day was to pick up our order, packaged and waiting in reception. Both Aled and I were thoroughly exhausted and still had a four-hour drive home, however, we were left in no doubt that the speed and low cost of producing finished product would leave more time in the studio, earning real money behind the camera, rather than wasting it behind the computer. Just because 'you can' doesn't necessarily mean 'you should'.
Chris Kay can be contacted at
Loxley Colour,
100 High Craighall Road,
Port Dundas, Glasgow, G4 9UD.
Telephone 0141 333 9444.
Chris encourages all photographers to visit and view the facility forthemselves.
There are 0 days to get ready for The Society of Photographers Convention and Trade Show at The Novotel London West, Hammersmith ...
which starts on Thursday 1st January 1970