Equipment Field Report: Moab Entrada Rag Natural 300
I recently created several 10x15" prints for a charity project on Moab Entrada Rag Natural 300gsm with an Epson R1900.
Before I share my results, allow me mention a few things:
- I calibrate my display for a target luminance of either 110 or 120 cd/m2
- I use the ICC profile for the Epson R1900 provided by Moab
- I use Epson UltraChrome pigment-based inks
- My workflow is split between Photoshop CS3 and Qimage Professional
To summarize my workflow, briefly, I conduct normal post-processing within Photoshop and leave any print-related resizing and sharpening to be handled by Qimage's fantastic rasterizing and sharpening algorithms.
Results on this paper from the R1900 are very good. So far, color landscape prints have been what I would describe as "sharp but painterly". Color saturation and vibrancy are excellent. Prints really do look good!
Comparing this paper to Hahnemuhle Matte Photo Rag, I'd say that Hahnemule most definitely holds shadows better. You'll pay much more for Hahnemuhle papers.
Something I noticed right away is that this paper's finish is quite fragile. No touching! Don't rest prints directly on top of each other. Use a very light brush to remove particles from the paper prior to usage, but handle the finished prints carefully. By the way, Moab Entrada Rag Natural is double-sided. This is handy when tuning your setup. I used only two sheets of paper while getting everything dialed in. Money "saved".
Conclusion: Moab Entrada Rag Natural 300 is decent paper! I will continue to use it as a more affordable alternative to Hahnemuhle.
Moab Entrada Rag Natural 300 Weight: 300 gsm Thickness: 22.5 mil Water-Resistant Pigment & Dye Ink Double-sided
Update 10/21/08: Moab Desert Varnish
Moab Desert Varnish is described by Moab as "UV and H2O resistant lacquer [that] greatly enhances the life of digital photos and documents. This spray is specifically designed for water soluble prints including most dye and pigment inkjects."
I have treated several of my prints with this spray lacquer. So far, results have been positive. Most importantly, there is no visible color shift after applying the recommended 2-3 coats. I have not noticed and decrease in "punch". In fact, a few prints appear slightly punchier after being coated. Prints handled without gloves have proven quite resistant to fingerprints. Dust settled onto prints can be blown off easily. I have not subjected prints to water and therefore cannot vouch for the H20 protection attributes claimed by Moab.
A few tips: Spray evenly from the recommended distance of 12 inches. Overlap your strokes. Be patient between applications, allowing five minutes for each coat to dry. Don't overcoat. Three light coats is plenty. Apply this lacquer in a ventilated room! Finally, keep a spare can around just in case you run out while preparing a print (doh!).
Jamie, JFP
|
|
