What is a Digital C-Type Print?

A digital C Type or Chromagenic print is any photographic print that has been exposed using digital technology, rather than traditional analogue (otherwise known as ‘darkroom’) techniques. In an analogue setting, an enlarger, an optical apparatus similar to a slide projector, projects the image of a negative onto a sheet of photographic paper whilst controlling focus, intensity and duration of light.

With a digital C Type (Chromagenic print) this part of the process is controlled from a computer and the paper is exposed using lasers or LEDs rather than a bulb. The second part of the traditional process is much the same however: the paper is processed in a photographic developer, followed by bleach fix before being washed to remove the processing chemicals.

So a digital C Type (Chromagenic) is a traditional photographic print, made from a digital file rather than a negative. Many customers think that a ‘digital print’ has to be a Giclée print but this is not so. A Giclée print is quite different, using no chemistry or light sensitivity.

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Metro’s professionalism, quality & genuine dedication to photographic talent make them our number one choice for exhibition production & printing.

— Lisa Farrell, British Journal of Photography

I’ve worked with Metro for over twenty years – retouching and printing for exhibitions, both in UK and internationally. The team have always been great in producing my work to a high level.at makes them a pleasure to work with.

— Sarah Jones, Artist

It is not only the superior quality of the prints produced – whether they be silver gelatin, c-type, or archival pigment prints – but also Metro’s high level of customer service that makes them a pleasure to work with.

— Iconic images

At Vogue and National Portrait Gallery we can say, without any question, how much we appreciate the quality of the work and service provided by Metro.