Please find below a list of Frequently asked questions. If you have a question please email us at and, if useful to others, we will print it on this page.
Q: Which is the best Inkset, Fotonic or Photochrome? (Epson 2100)
A: This depends on the type of Photographer you are. (what photography you are into, the media you are use and your colour and longevity expectations. We do not recommend either inkset, we simply tell you the advantages and disadvantages of each:
Fotonic Inkset
PhotoChrome Inkset
Dye based
Pigment Based
Slightly wider colour range than PhotoChrome
Easier to achieve neutral monochrome prints
25 - 30 years certified longevity (depending on media)
60 - 80 years (depending on media)
Produces negligible bronzing on Gloss or Satin papers
Slight bronzing on Satin and Gloss papers (new Lyson papers improve this considerably)
Intrinsically waterproof inkset (water-stable on most media)
Q: Which Printer would you recommend, the Epson 1290 or Epson 2100?
A: The most modern printer is the Epson 2100. This is capable of producing a 6 minute A3 print, whereas the Epson 1290 takes 20 minutes to print the same size print. The quality of print is extremely similar although the 1290 does produce slightly better quality - although only apparent when viewing under a magnifying glass. Both printers are compatible with the Lyson Continuous ink system saving you £1.00 on ink costs on every A3 Print.
So, the quality is very similar but the speed of the Epson 2100 makes it the most desirable printer.
Q: Can i print colour and Black & White Images on the same printer with one inkset?
A: Yes you can, although the recommended set up would be to have one printer dedicated to colour printing (using a colour inkset) and one printer dedicated to monochrome (black & white) printing (using a black & white inkset).
However, for many individuals, having two printers is not an option due to lack of space or budget. In this case, the best option is to go for the Epson R2400 or Epson 2100 using PhotoChrome Inks. These produce a excellent colour range and excellent blacks. Please email us at
with your full postal address for a free sample.
Q: Which is the better monochrome Inkset, Small Gamut or Quad-Black?
A: The vast majority of our black and white customers use the small gamut inkset for their monochrome photography. The reason for this is that
the small gamut ink is toneable - you can tone the print warmer or colder and create your own definition of a neutral. The quad-black inkset on the other hand, is a more basic inkset and is fixed tone. This means you are unable to alter the tone as you are with the Small Gamut inkset. The Small Gamut inkset also has the advantage that it is far easier to custom profile. This means you will be able to achieve much smoother tones, smoother graduations, see much more detail in shadow areas and correct any printer biases (e.g. magenta casts) thus improving the quality of your Monochrome Photography.
