Hi,
Simple question: What's the best way to print RGB files on an Epson 9880?
I'd assume it's the same as with other Epson photo printers: open file in Photoshop, use the correct paper profile (Hahnemühle in my case), use the settings recommended by Epson, etc.... then hit the "print" button. Right?
The reason why I'm asking:
A friend of mine runs a pre-press business, using an Epson 9880 – but solely to print CMYK proofs. He said I could use his printer to print some large format images for an upcoming exhibition.
As a photographer, I prefer to work in RGB. In the past I have used a professional lab to print my RGB images, who are also using the Epson 9880, on Hahnemühle Fine Art Pearl paper – excellent results, but obviously more expensive.
So my friend did a test print on the same paper – but unfortunately he sent them through his proofing software (EFI Colorproof XF), and the prints came out rather bright and with less vivid colours. Some dark areas also showed extreme banding...
He seems to swear by his proofing software, and said he doesn't have time to recalibrate his printer to RGB workflow. Whereas I'm thinking: there's probably no need to recalibrate anything – just bypass the proofing software, and we're good to go...
I know that every printer has slightly different colours, even if it's the exact same printer model. And I don't expect a 100% match/proof to what I see on my calibrated screen.... As long as I'm 95% there, that's fine...
It'd be great if someone her had experience with the Epson 9880 (or 7880 / 11880) printers.
Thank you for your help & thoughts on this!!