Most likely the photographer wouldn't know exactly how to achieve the
exquisite result due to the 'printer' employing some sort of specific
knowledge, hence, not being able to convey the technical aspects of its
manufacutre.
The feasibility of obtaining excellent results at home are about within
one's grasp. The equipment would be similar to :
1. CPU w/200mhz, 2 gig HD, 128 megs RAM, 17" screen (20" would be
superior) for about $3000
2. Ink-Jet printer by Encad, Cal-Comp or HP to print 36" material and
able to use
the newer UV resistant inks and a bulk ink supply for about $4000
So, you're into it for $7000. Lotta money for most, but the ability for
creation is now rather quick and endless. I feel that at this point in
time if one had the equipment you could offset the initial costs by
printing for others now and then (not opening a business)
If you are an instructor in a university atmosphere which has limited
computer tools, you might seriously consider applying to companies for
donations in your name to use and then work there while you both create
and teach. That is rather awkward but feasible in the sense of whether
you like the results or not.
My favorite way of working is to create work 11"x14" in size and scan
that and do additional work w/the computer for final printing. I still
truly enjoy darkroom and studio artwork making.
Returning the photographer w/the zippy prints on display....many just
opt for technology due to its observed clarity but more due to the
whiz-bang effect of using something other than a wet process. There is
rarely a whit of theory or need for the technique involved. One of our
recent students working in a team, Anthony Aziz and Samy Kucher
(Aziz-Kuchar) have wonderfully blended technique with theory to produce
a thoughtful yet alarming body of work. Their final output of faces
w/specific features digitally removed, were large photographic color
prints. You could not tell it was done on a computer though one had to
recognize it was the only manner in which to achieve such spectacular
results.
Discussion on techniques to achieve such results would be an interesting
subject for this group.
Sorry, but I meant to throw in my 2ç worth, but it has come to be about
four bits.
Jack Fulton