Our Special Edition prints are the ultimate expression of my vision for a particular photograph. Every aspect of these prints is designed to enhance the image by echoing the look and feel of the natural environment that produced it. Unlike the viewing platform of a classic gallery print that isolates the picture in a white rag window mat, a Special Edition print is a unified artwork of photo, mat and frame that amplifies the voice of the original scene. Where the traditional gallery print is like a beautiful solo performance, the Special Edition is a grand symphony.

The literal nature of color photography makes it difficult to achieve this perfect harmony of expression. For when we view a color pint we expect it to accurately represent the world around us, and we are extremely sensitive to anything in its display that conflicts with that reality. Hence, a white gallery mat is the norm for displaying photographic prints, as it is a safe and always acceptable solution for any image. But is it the best solution for any image? The answer is obvious when you see a Special Edition print, in which the mat and frame so perfectly match the ambiance of the photo that they seem to have grown out of the scene. The natural beauty of the hand crafted wood moulding, the subtle accent of the filet, the color and richness of the hand-wrapped fabric matting, and the stunning clarity and "depth" created by the state-of-the-art museum glass — all combine to focus your complete attention on the photograph.

Creating a "naturally perfect" environment for viewing a color photograph requires an exceptionally talented framing artist, and Debbie Spicer of Eastlake Framing in Bend, Oregon, is the best I've ever encountered. With practical experience in custom color printing and photographic retouching, a profound knowledge of available materials, and extraordinary craftsmanship in applying them to a framing project, Debbie is a key resource and invaluable partner in creating our Special Edition prints.

Aspen & Spruce Special Limited Edition

EDITION LIMITS:

Each Special Edition print is meticulously prepared and printed by me (see printing information below), with the entire edition done at one time to assure complete uniformity. It is then signed, numbered, and framed according to the unique design standard established for that edition. As each complete edition is printed from a single roll of paper or canvas, the edition limit is determined by the size of the print, with most editions ranging from only 10 to 15 prints.

PRICING:

Special edition prints are priced 50% higher than the standard "print only" price for the same image, plus the actual wholesale framing cost, which is typically in the $1,000 range. As an edition sells, and fewer prints are available, the price is gradually increased.

PRINTING:

All Special Edition prints are created with digital pigment technology (often called "giclee"), assuring the highest level of color accuracy and archival permanence available today. Beginning with an ultra high resolution drum scan of my original medium or large format film, I then carefully color correct the file to faithfully match the scene as I experienced and recorded it. Once I am fully satisfied with this "digital negative," I make numerous test prints until the result matches my (very high) expectations before making the final print on Crane Museo Silver Rag Fine Art paper or Premier Canvas Satin. The result is a stunningly beautiful museum grade print that will retain its brilliance for generations, outlasting all prior photographic processes including dye transfer.

The weight and richness of Silver Rag is remarkably similar to the best air-dried heavyweight cotton fiber papers I once used in the darkroom, and it renders a far more artistic result than any of the premium photo papers that are commonly used in today's gallery market. Premier Canvas Satin produces a print with the distinct look and feel of an original oil painting, and is the ideal solution for select images.