FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions. If you have a question that is not addressed here, please email me at michael@michaelsmojo.com


Q: What programs do you use for conversions and manipulations?

A: Adobe Camera Raw and Adobe Photoshop, and some assorted plug-ins.

Q: Will the image name and my studio name be printed on the backs of my proof prints?

A: Yes to one. Maybe to the other. Each proof print and reprint will have the file name printed on the back, limited to 8 characters (not counting the ".jpg"). I can, in some sizes, print your studio name as well, limited to 15 characters.  Please contact me if this is important to you, as this is not my default.


Q: If I shoot a RAW file in B&W mode in my camera, you will automatically process it as a B&W won't you?

A: No. RAW files,by definition, include all of the color information. The software that came with your camera may show such images as being B&W, but when I open them in ACR I have no indication that you might want it in B&W. You should always submit work to me in clearly labeled folders. Any files within a folder labeled "B&W 4x6" will be processed as such, etc. See the order section for more information on this.


Q: I get the sense that you are all about portrait and wedding retouching and printing. Do you have any experience with commercial, product, architectural, fine art, etc.?

A: I have been doing custom printing in the darkroom since 1986 for all genres. I would say that, historically speaking, I have done more work with commercial and architectural subject matter than any other. My tendency to cater to wedding and portrait shooters is more a reflection of the state of the industry than my personal tastes. I would be delighted to be a part of your production team regardless of the subject matter.


Q: I'm new to digital photography, what file type should I shoot?

A: The best results come from your cameras RAW setting.


Q: But that's too much trouble and it fills up memory cards faster, I'd rather just shoot a JPG.

A: You can probably set your camera to shoot a RAW plus a jpg. You can edit using the JPGs, if you like, and use the RAW file for output. And memory cards are cheap. Have you priced them lately? I just ordered two Kingston 2GB, 50x CF cards for under $13 each (Adorama, with a rebate).


Q: Why are you such an evangelist for RAW files, What if I have file types other than RAW, can you proof/process/mojo those?

A: Sure. I can work from any file type, I just preach the gospel of RAW because I know that is what will yield the best image, when processed correctly.


Q: I've been shooting B&W film for a hundred years, can you make prints from my digital camera that will look like what I'm accustomed to seeing from HP5 (or T-Max, Neopan, etc.)?

A: The short answer is no. If you are a B&W film purist, you should continue to be one. There are not enough of you in the world and we don't want to lose you, too :-)
Now for the long answer... I think B&W remains the weakest link in digital photography in a production environment, because what we are selling are prints on color paper, with the files modified to yield a neutral monotone. With that in mind, I have gone to considerable effort to develop techniques that yield B&W proof prints that are acceptable by almost anyones standards, even purists such as yourself. My clients, the shooters, have ALL been happy with the results and certainly no one at the consumer level will ever have reason to question the quality of the product. I have made literally thousands of B&W prints for people who are like you and have shot real B&W film for years. These people claim to be thrilled with the results I give them.

For your enlargements, a custom B&W conversion is included with my file prep "Mojo" service. You are welcome to make suggestions with regard to tint, contrast, grain, etc. in order to attempt to fully satisfy the B&W purist in you.


Q: My output service doesn't offer the print size that I want. What can you do?

A: I can prepare your file so that your image is floating within a standard size. When the excess is trimmed, your image will be the correct size. For example, If you want a 10x18 the next closest option is probably 16x20, I will float your 10x18 image in the middle of a 16x20. You or your framer will need to trim it, if desired.


Q: Why would I pay you to do all of this conversion and prep work when I can do it myself?

A: If you have the time, experience, equipment, patience and desire to do it yourself then you certainly don't need me. For most of my clients, the answer has to do with Quality Of Life. About half of my clients are fully capable of doing all of this themselves, but they would rather spend that time doing things they enjoy, like taking pictures. Many people long for the days when they dropped off film at their favorite lab and when they picked it up, they had something they could sell. These are the people I'm here to serve.


Q: Do you have an office or storefront, or are you an 'online only' service?

A: I do this work from my home and right now I am 'online only'. If you plan to be in the Charlotte, NC area and are interested in any of my services, I would be delighted to meet with you. Please email me at michael@michaelsmojo.com.


Q: Why do you offer services with AND without prints? Why would I NOT want prints?

A: If you have access to a very inexpensive printing source that you are happy with, you could enjoy some savings by handling the print order part yourself. For instance, I have been told that there are places in the country that have 4x6 prints for 10 cents each. If you are in such an area and have several hundred images that each need a 4x6 print, you might see the value in having me turn your RAW files into "print ready" jpg files. The same could be true for your enlargements. Or maybe you've invested in a good inkjet printer but you are struggling with the image prep and manipulation part of the workflow.


Q: Are you "color managed"?

A: I am ÜBER COLOR MANAGED! :-)  I have taken classes and familiarized myself with the practical applications of color management as it applies to the photo industry. In addition, and most importantly, I have over twenty years experience in the photo lab as a color and B&W technician in traditional and digital processes. What that means is that no matter how "color managed" a workflow is, I still apply my critical color eye to everything I see. I have seen output from sources that are "perfectly color managed by the numbers", yet the results are off color. I understand and use color management techniques, but I never hesitate to make a "seat of the pants" color correction if an image is in need of it.


Q: Can you place/upload my orders for me at the lab of my choice?

A: Yes. Please email me and we'll discuss your workflow and make arrangements.


Q: Can I send you an entire unedited event, such as a wedding, and have you edit it before you proof it?

A: Yes, within reason. I can edit out obvious "unsellables" such as shots with eyes closed, or flash misfires, etc. Please contact me so we can further discuss your editing needs and determine if there will be any additional charges necessary.