About

About

About the Process::

Some photos are either taken with various black & white 35 mm films (Acros Neopan 100, Tri X 400, Portra BW 400 & T400CN) as well as 35 mm color transparencies( Velvia 50 & Provia 100) or start digitally using the Leica M8 rangefinder, Nikon D2x camera set, the Kodak DCS 14nx and Nikon D1x , D1x modified for infrared capture( by Lifepixel). RAW images acquired by the D2x,D1x and 14nx are opened in Nikon Capture , & Nikon Capture NX software(D2x,D1x),PhotoDesk(14nx) and Adobe Camera Raw (all cameras);Adobe Photoshop CS3)for evaluation and control after which they are processed in Photoshop CS2 (9.0). Film is scanned using the Nikon SuperCoolscan 4000 and Nikon Scan 4 software for digitization and subsequent processing in Photoshop.

About the Printing:

Black and white printing is done using Piezotone inks from Cone Editons Piezography system. Currently Neutral K6 inks are used . Hextone production and linearization is accomplished using a R.I.P.( raster imaging processor) by Ergosoft(PosterPrint) and an Epson 7500 wide format printer for images up to 24 " wide. Readers are encouraged to visit this site for more information:

Color pigment printing is done using Ultrachrome Epson pigmented inks on a wide format Epson 7600 printer using both Epson drivers as well as StudioPrint R.I.P. Color profiling of papers is done using the Color GPS software by Ergosoft, Monaco Proof by X-Rite and Eye One Match by Gretag Macbeth.

Both color and black & white images are printed on various matte finish fine art papers from Epson ( Canvas, Premier Art Canvas, Smooth Fine Art, Ultrasmooth Fine Art, Textured Fine Art, & Watercolor) ,as well as non-Epson manufacturers such as Hahnemuhle (Photo Rag, William Turner, German Etching) Legion (Somerset Velvet) , Moab (Entrada Fine Art Natural & Bright White, Anasazi Canvas) & Bergger (PN 32 & PN 33).

Both processes allow for true long term protection against fading as opposed to typical 100 % dye based print methods. Information on this subject can be found at these sites: http://www.wilhelm-research.com/ http://www.inkjetmall.com/store/info/1000-hours.html.

About the finish:

Once photographs are printed and after appropriate dry time, the prints can be lacquered and textured to increase their color (black & white as well) depth. This process allows for display not requiring a protective glass (although still possible) and allows the prints to truly reveal their fine detail and rich look. All prints are accompanied by a signed Certificate of Authenticity listing the name of the print, print size, print process, paper type & weight .

About the artist :

Francisco James Mares Photography currently shows at Patrician Design Studio/Caliente, It's Hot and at Arteriors in Albuquerque, New Mexico; Also can be seen in the Collector's Guide for Central & Northern New Mexico