I'd like to begin printing, framing and selling some of my own photographs locally (here in Hong Kong), but I want a product with colours that are vibrant (when appropriate) and alive, something akin to the feeling you get when you view a wonderful oil painting, something that far exceeds the quality of an average photograph. this is obviously not possible with output from the local photo centre using a Frontier and Fuji Archive paper, nor is it possible with my blues-aren't-blue Epson 1290. I firmly believe that I will need to (lovingly) print the photos myself on better equipment, hence, I'm asking for advice from the professionals.
what printers, ink and paper would you recommend for the best possible printed images, up to 24" x 16", preferably with a paper texture somewhere between matt and glossy; ie, a textured glossy paper? colour, physical feel and overall quality (and longevity) are the important goals, to make the final products stick out from run-of-the-mill commercial printed photos.
am I asking for too much?
sincerely,
Gregory