Setting my monitor to look like the print from the lab.

[ianclay]

I'm new to the digital stuff and need a hand. I always have prints made from negs, however I would like to try having prints made from digital files.

The lab manager told me to make a file that is 294 dpi's and re-size the image to 8x10, and he would make me an 8x10 print. He said I could then take the print home and set the gamma on my monitor through PS to look like the image he printed. That way what I see at home is what I'll get when I take digital files to him.

Well first of all I can't find any gamma settings in PS and 2nd 294dpi's sounds small for and 8x10.

Where is the gamma setting, and what dpi should I scan my negs in at for an 8x10. I have a Canon 2720 film scanner. Thank you for your help.

 

[zavsays]

You really should use an image that is 8x10 "AND" 294 dpi (or technically 300dpi but 294 would work O.K.)........... so scan an 8x10 at 300dpi.
I may be wrong but I think the gamma software should have come with Photoshop in a "calibration " folder. If you're on a MAC, you may find it in your Control Panels.
Once you adjust your monitor for print, you'll notice your monitor will look flatter. Your web surfing will seem less vivid so it may take some getting used to.
If you're fussy, you may also choose to toggle between two gamma settings (should you locate the gamma software) for say...print...and web construction.
If the Gamma stuff is nowhere to be found, you'll have to adjust your monitor the old fashioned way...by adjusting the brightness, contrast , etc..by pushing buttons on the monitor.
Scan your film at 300dpi and set the size to 8x10 (600%?estimate).
O.K. I'm rambling....good luck!

 

[ianclay]

Thank you for your response. I'll try setting the film scaner to 600% and 300dpi's. I was scanning my negs at 100% and not 600%. Thanks again.