In the not-too-distant past, the only sure way to digitally reproduce super-high-quality photographs for large, backlit displays was to use a laser photo imager such as a Lambda or LightJet to expose the image onto traditional photographic films, which were then run through a conventional photographic processor. While inkjets still don't match the ultra-high resolutions of these photo imagers, the latest generation of six- and eight-color superwide inkjet printers are providing production alternatives that are meeting the quality expectations of some of the world's most color-critical clients.
For example, a superwide inkjet was used to produce this 25 x 2 m (82 ft. x 6 ft) mural displayed in a two-sided lightbox suspended over the Citroen booth at the “Le Mondial de l'automobile” exhibition in Paris. The graphics were output on a six-color, 10-ft. wide VUTEk UltraVu 3360 SC solvent-system inkjet by the Exhibit graphics-production firm of Nice, France. The company uses the same machine to output graphics for wall and ceiling banners and fleet signage.
Exhibit was established in 1992 and employs 19 people. Until they acquired their Vutek UltraVu 3360 less than 2 years ago, the firm primarily served local businesses. Now, with sales offices in Paris and Marseille, the company has produced graphics for brand-marketers such as Dior, Gucci, Nokia, Kenzo, Balmain, Tommy Hilfiger and Mont Blanc. Exhibit's managing director Jean Bernard attributes a lot of the company's success to their focus on quality and consultative, solutions-oriented selling. The company has applied for ISO 9001 certification and trains its employees to think of themselves more as consultants than salespeople.(EXHIBIT: julien@exhibit.fr)