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As featured in our Spring 2003 School Catalog...

Archival Nature of Inkjet Printing

"The archival nature of inkjet printing has progressed remarkably within the past few years. It is no longer a matter of whether or not inkjet printing technologies can effectuate an archival print; it is now simply a matter of choosing the right materials to get the job done. Many manufacturers currently produce and distribute ink sets and papers that can indeed produce a print that will stand the test of time. However, various manufacturer's claims as to the "archival" nature of their respective products, do not necessarily remain equal.

I highly recommend that photographers who wish to employ inkjet printing technologies purchase a reflection densitometer and conduct their own fade tests on each combination of ink and paper they plan to use. The tests are quite simple to do and while they may not be as scientifically based as testing done under strictly controlled laboratory conditions, they will represent "real world" conditions under which your prints will actually be subjected over their lifetimes. And, the tests you do will allow you to make comparative judgements about which materials are best suited to your particular needs."