I think this is a wise choice Lucy. Printing with a local lab (or at the very least, having prints shipped to you first) allows you to inspect the prints, sign them, and add any personal handwritten touches to your receipt/packaging etc before you ship them out – you just can't do that with dropshipping. Sure, you can add a digital signature and have a CoA included or some branded materials, but I still feel like it has the feeling of being detached from the artist. Dropshipping does reduce production expense since the prints are going straight to the collector, but not seeing the print before it reaches the collector negates that benefit for me. I think increasing the print quality, increasing the 'direct from the artist factor', and increasing pricing makes more sense. We've worked hard on refining our printing service over the years, and it feels like we're always trying to solve some kind of pain point for our collectors – but we love the process. Hope your next steps go well for you!
It’s always great to feel more connected to your prints. I’ve avoided Darkroom because i don’t see many options for fine art papers. I’ve been using Finerworks and they’re so easy to upload and drop ship. Hopefully in the new year will find a local shop myself!
Hola , ¿ Conoces La Plataforma Catawiki ? , Es Una Gran Oportunidad Para Vender Tus Fascinantes Fotografías. Un Saludo Y Feliz Navidad.
I think this is a wise choice Lucy. Printing with a local lab (or at the very least, having prints shipped to you first) allows you to inspect the prints, sign them, and add any personal handwritten touches to your receipt/packaging etc before you ship them out – you just can't do that with dropshipping. Sure, you can add a digital signature and have a CoA included or some branded materials, but I still feel like it has the feeling of being detached from the artist. Dropshipping does reduce production expense since the prints are going straight to the collector, but not seeing the print before it reaches the collector negates that benefit for me. I think increasing the print quality, increasing the 'direct from the artist factor', and increasing pricing makes more sense. We've worked hard on refining our printing service over the years, and it feels like we're always trying to solve some kind of pain point for our collectors – but we love the process. Hope your next steps go well for you!
-Tom
It’s always great to feel more connected to your prints. I’ve avoided Darkroom because i don’t see many options for fine art papers. I’ve been using Finerworks and they’re so easy to upload and drop ship. Hopefully in the new year will find a local shop myself!
I think you channel William Eggleston!! Since you are an artist 🎨 you gonna wear a baret?