What is Dye-Sub Printing?
In modern-day photo printing, there are two types of technology: dye-sub printing and inkjet printing. Dye-sub is a type of printing technology where heat is used to transfer dye from a ribbon directly onto the media.
You’ll require two things for dye-sub printing: a dye-sub printer and media. Each box of media contains paper and ribbon. Each media kit will print a specific number of pictures, which is clearly indicated on the box.
How does dye-sub printing work?
On the ribbon provided in the media box, there are three colours: cyan, magenta and yellow, as well as a clear protective film. The paper is fed through the printer, and inside the printer is a thermal print head. The thermal head will then heat the ribbon, which causes it to stick to the paper. This process happens three times, each time putting a different layer of colour down onto the paper. On the fourth and final time, the clear, protective layer goes onto the image. The image will then be released from the printer. As soon as the image comes out, it’s completely dry to touch. It is also fade resistant, and fully waterproof.
Why use a dye-sub printer?
These printers are very easy to use. In the box, they come complete with Windows and Mac drivers. Connect the printer with a USB cable, and within minutes, you’ll be able to print images. The cost to produce prints on dye-sub printers is also fairly inexpensive, meaning you can make very good margins reselling the images. Another great thing about dye-sub printers is that each print you produce has a fixed cost. Each box of media will do a set number of prints; so with some simple maths, take the cost of the media, divided by the number of prints, and you’ll know exactly how much each print will cost you. The printers are small and lightweight, as well as very durable; they also come with a 2-year manufacturer’s warranty.
Who uses dye-sub printers?
The first market would be event printers, where it’s print-on-demand; customers come into your studio, you take a shot, and sell the print there and then. The printers are also great for system integrators; this includes companies that manufacture photo booths or selfie mirrors, where the end user is given the option to print. Finally, why not buy multiple dye-sub printers so you can create a compact retail print solution?