BetterPhoto Q&A
Category: Great Photo Presentation

Photography Question 

MATTHEW PARKER
 

Monitor Calibration Software


Hello All,
I'm looking to buy a color management monitor calibration tool. There are so many out there but I have been looking at the Spyder2Pro software. Any comments or feedback on the Spyder2Pro or other color management software is greatly appreciated. I print using the Epson R2400. Thanks!


To love this question, log in above
September 22, 2007

 

Richard Lynch
  Matt,
I've been using Spyder Pros for years. I've been very happy with it. Before that I used a device manufactured by Sequel Imaging, which I believe became the Gretag Macbeth Eye-One Display LT. In the earlier version, it was an excellent device, so I imagine it would have only improved. I have not used but also heard of people having success with the Pantone Huey.
I can recommend the Spyder from first-hand use. Any calibration device (it is not just software, but hardware as well) will make a difference.
I often recommend not printing at home and using a service as well. I think printing is too much of a diversion, and you can use a service to print off machines you would never buy for your home (upward of $40,000). You also don't have to worry about calibration, supplies, maintenance. I don't have a printer even hooked up to my main work station.
I hope that helps!


To love this comment, log in above
September 22, 2007

 

Irene Troy
  Hi Matt – Just to back up what Richard already said and to share my experiences: I also use the Spyder Pro and once gave the Huey a test as well. Personally, I greatly prefer the Spyder and find that it is much more accurate. I find it simple and uncomplicated to use - although, at first, the directions can seem a little daunting. Once you set it up and use it the first time it becomes very simple.
BTW: You have a terrific gallery! Many of your images are of places I greatly love or those that I yearn to visit.
Irene


To love this comment, log in above
September 24, 2007

 

Wayne Oliver
  Hi Matt

I have Spyder2Pro color management system and it works the way it suppose to work, my prints that come out on my Epson R2400 is what I see on screen. Just remember with any color management system you calibrate your monitor with you screen will be more brighter than your print media, keep this in mind your monitor projects light and you print media reflex's light. I calibrate every Monday, I do a lot of printing.


To love this comment, log in above
October 02, 2007

 

Kathleen Paton
  Richard,

Would you expand on your comment: "You also don't have to worry about calibration, . ." when using a printing service?

If my monitor is not calibrated, how do I know what the results will be from any printer?

Thanks,
Kathleen
(And thanks, also for the wealth of information you provide here.)


To love this comment, log in above
October 02, 2007

 

Richard Lynch
  Kathleen...
Out of context that statement is wrong. It should say: "You also don't have to worry about calibrating your printer" -- that is, if you don't have a printer, not much use in trying to calibrate it ;-). On the other hand, you ABSOLUTELY MUST calibrate your monitor to have any predictability at all!

As I suggested, the Spyder Pros are a good way to go, but generally some type of hardware calibration is better than none, and if you don't want to do that, software is better than nothing at all. Guessing...leads to unpredictable results.

Thanks for the opportunity to clarify!

Richard


To love this comment, log in above
October 03, 2007

 
wildlifetrailphotography.com - Donald R. Curry

BetterPhoto Member
Contact Donald R. Curry
Donald R. Curry's Gallery
  I use Spyder 2 and a R2400. My printed photos look like what I see on the monitor. I am very pleased.


To love this comment, log in above
October 03, 2007

 

Kathleen Paton
  Thanks, Richard. Of course that's what you meant; I see that now. My brain was stuck on monitors.

Kathleen


To love this comment, log in above
October 03, 2007

 
Log in to respond or ask your own question.