As a photographer, should you own a printer? If we look back in history, many photographers at the top of their profession chose not to do their own printing. Instead, they would have staff or an associated lab that would go into the darkroom and create the prints for them.

This was an economic decision. Photographers last century could earn thousands of dollars a day working with their camera, but perhaps only hundreds if they worked in the darkroom. It was much more profitable to give the printing work to someone else. However, let’s ask another question: when it came to their personal images, did they send that out as well? Not nearly as often. Most professionals had the skills to be great darkroom printers and they enjoyed the creative process. To go into the darkroom and work on an exhibition or a portfolio was an opportunity to be cherished and enjoyed.

It’s what being a photographer was all about.

So, does this premise still stand today? Can you be a serious photographer and not make prints? Of course! Photography is a language and there are all sorts of ways we can use photography to express ourselves. If your passion is posting images on social media, that’s great! You’re still a photographer,
no question about that. 

However, we’d like to make a suggestion, with love and affection, of course. Displaying photos on social media is akin to the fast food industry. Preparing a photo book or an exhibition of prints is like cooking for a wonderful dinner party at home, enjoying the conviviality and the process as much as the result. 

So, with that thought in mind, we take a look at Epson's new SC-906 (and SC-706) printers, but don't rush out to buy one just yet! We understand the printer is so popular, it could be a few months yet before Epson is able to catch up with supply. What a great problem to have!

If you'd like to read more about the Epson SC-906 and why we think it's a great printer, read all about it in Better Photography magazine. Not a subscriber yet? You can subscribe on our sister website, www.betterphotographyeducation.com - plus you'll get immediate access to nearly 50 amazing back issues! Subscribe now!