Need 700 images printed...

[Daniel W.]

Right then, I need to print 700 4x6's, and need to do it economically and reasonably (time is not as much as an issue but I need them by "July-ish."

What to do? So far the problems I've run into are:

• Uploading through any lab's Java program is unsuccessful.
• Uploading drops a few files here and there, difficult to find them and re-upload

So I've contacted two labs (Mpix - going with their $.19 print) and ArtsCow about sending a CD in. The first of the two has quality and quick turn around, but even their lowest price is high compared to the latter. In addition I'd be resting the entire thing on my own color management, at that quantity I wouldn't want 700 prints to come out wonky... they do accept CD's (in fact they'll ship you a free mailer) - that is a plus.

ArtsCow prices their 4x6's at $.06 each, I've had some others shipped by them and they do great work with Fuji Crystal Archive and Frontier printers, a little less weighty than the Endura that Mpix is using but that's not a problem. Maybe even a plus given these will be pasted into a book. However, the entire operation is in Hong Kong, which I assume leads to the lower price. Shipping a CD (and hoping it gets there safely) seems sketchy to me, even more time consuming. But the price...

I've chosen to go with an online lab because I'm losing patience with Walgreens, lately everything there comes out too contrasty, too saturated, too sharp even if I ask for no correction whatsoever. I have a Sam's club in my area but haven't looked into per-price cost of the prints though.

[L Stegall]

I'm pleased using Mpix to print. Why not upload a handful to "test" if you are wanting to see their color management? That would give you a good idea without buying all 700. Mpix has fast turnaround, so you could do the test group and then easily get the rest back within your time frame.

[CaroleHayes]

Clark Color Labs has 8 cent prints (regular price!), and they are NOT in China. I've heard good things about their quality, but haven't had a chance to try them myself yet....

[David Whatley]

Costco is pretty good, I am told, if you have them trun the auto color management off.

[Daniel W.]

Thanks Carole! I'm looking in to see of Clark lets me send in a CD, nothing back from ArtsCow either. I've had some nice stuff come in from Costco but the only one is across town, I'll be calling Sam's and seeing how much it costs on the morrow.

EDIT: Artscow got back to me, they only accept online orders. It seems like a hassle given that they give you "1200" free prints though.

[photonewb]

Robin Binder talks about a place here in town called ASAP I believe. Check with her maybe, you might be able to walk in with your CD and get the process started. I only say check with her because she'd have more details regarding name and location than I do.

[ndsimm]

ASAP has two locations, one on Crossview off Westhimer/Fondren and one in Sugarland
Crossview Location number is 713-785-4443, ask for Jen...

[Clayton Wallace]

Just a heads up ASAP consolidated to just the one store on Crossview. The Sugar Land store was a general-public, retail oriented store and they have focused on pro services. They do great work.