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Photography Question 

Robert B. Cudney
 

Loading ICC Profiles


I'm trying to load non-Epson ICC profiles that I've downloaded from paper manufacturers, but I can't figure out how to do it. I'm working with a Power Mac G5 with OSX 10.4.11 and an EPSON 3800. I use Aperture.


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November 08, 2008

 

Richard Lynch
  Robert,
Do use care when trying this sort of thing. Profiles are oft provided, but not oft supported well, and they may lead to confusing and even horrible results if used incorrectly.
I don't use Aperture or I'd provide more information. For the most part I would only use the ICC profile for previewing/on screen proofing...unless a service is specifically asking for images with custom printing profiles embedded. Even for on-screen proofing, I think it is of limited utility to use ICC profiles. Far better to get a good handle on simple color management principles and set up your workflow for success. I can safely assume what I see on screen is a reasonably good estimation of what I'll get in print because of the way I work with color.
I guess what is even more important to be sure this isn't going completely down the wrong path: what are you trying to accomplish?


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November 09, 2008

 

Pete H
  Robert,
I have to agree with Richard on this one. Further, "mix & match" ICC profiles often cause more damage than they are worth. I would avoid them.
Epson has a wide array of ICC profiles that match your 3800, so I see no need to adopt (non-compliant) files.
To your specific question:
I don't use Aperture either; generally the ICC Profile is loaded into a folder within the editing program itself. Do not change the name of the file. Generally; after downloading a profile,I simply drag & drop the new profile to the folder where ALL profiles reside within my editor.
As an aside, Robert, don't be overly concerned over ICC Profiles. The numbers may tell you the colors are accurate and serve as a starting point; but I have never been satisfied with final output from ANY Profile. I almost always have to tweak, etc.
Most of my printed work is done at pro labs. They have a "profile" on file for me. Notice I said "ME". Although I started with a baseline profile, it has been tweaked for what I like.
Adding to the confusion, when I order 8x10's and 16x20's of the exact same image, I use a different profile for each size!
Bottom line? Stick with profiles written for your printer.


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November 10, 2008

 

Robert B. Cudney
  Thank you Pete and Richard. I actually tried this and the results were very good simply using the EPSON premium luster setting.
Cheers,


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November 10, 2008

 

Richard Lynch
  Pete,
You say that like we don't often agree ;-)

Richard


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November 10, 2008

 

Pete H
  Heh-Heh..sorry Richard, been gone for a day.

Ya', I re-read my first sentence. Chalk it up poor contextual grammer. LOL

Rephrase: I agree with Richard on this.

Where's an editor when ya' need one! LOL

Pete


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November 11, 2008

 
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