If you’re feeling limited by the maximum paper size requirements of your current printer (11×17, perhaps?), then it’s time to consider moving up to a wide-format printer.
Wide-format is defined as any printer capable of producing prints that are 24 inches or wider. Some models can produce up to 64-inch wide prints. You can, of course, send your prints out to a service bureau, but some photographers need more control and the instant feedback of a printer that’s carefully calibrated to handle their files using the inks and print media of their choosing.
The Big Three in this relatively esoteric area of printing are Canon, Epson, and HP (no surprise here). All take both rolls and sheets of print media and most come with a stand that has a basket that catches the prints as they come out. A built-in cutter cuts the print (if you’re using a roll) when it’s complete.
When making large prints, printer speed can be a deciding factor, as each print will take minutes to be completed, so check online reviews as well as manufacturer specs. Number of inks is another. Canon and HP printers tend to have from 5 to 12 colors, depending on the model. Epson’s printers can have as many as 9 inks. Keep in mind that it can easily cost you $100 or more per ink cartridge, and potentially much more than that for a roll of paper. However, the more inks you use, the more accurate the color will be. Also remember that you can customize things by using third-party inks. This can be especially helpful in obtaining rich tonality if you’re printing only black-and-white.
Many newer printers have built-in calibration tools, which can make getting consistent, accurate results much easier. Since each print is a major investment in time and money and re-do’s waste material, good calibration is essential when doing large-format printing.
Do you need a small-format printer as well? No! You can also feed smaller format paper through your wide-format printer. Once you invest in a wide-format printer, it could be the only printer you’ll need.
