2010-05-17

Better Light, Inc. Becomes AaI&A Group Sponsor

Because Better Light digital scanning backs produce exceptionally detailed digital images with superior color and tonal fidelity they are frequently used in fine art reproduction and demanding copy work, but creative landscape and commercial photographers are harnessing their exceptional quality in the field and for other critical imaging applications as well.

I am pleased to announce that Better Light, Inc., a manufacturer of high-end digital scanning backs, has become a group sponsor of the AaI&A Digital Print Research Program. Better Light will be distributing free AaI&A subscriptions to any registered Better Light customers that would like to become a member of AaI&A.

The extremely high resolution and high fidelity digital files produced by Better Light scanning backs just beg to be printed to the highest quality printing standards, so it's no coincidence that owners of Better Light scanning backs also typically demand the highest printmaking standards for their work. Their expectations extend beyond initial print quality and touch upon the very reason print permanence matters, i.e., to preserve the subtle colors and tones in the printed image as long as possible. Consumer fading tolerances aren't satisfactory for the demanding fine art print market, and the need for higher print permanence standards and more comprehensive information about the care and preservation of the work is where the interests of Better Light's customers and AaI&A members converge.

I want to personally thank Mike Collette, owner and President of Better Light, for contacting Aardenburg Imaging & Archives and working patiently with me to set up a group sponsorship plan for his company. When I founded AaI&A in 2007, my goal was to rely on modest subscription fees and the active participation of the digital imaging and printmaking community to build the most materials-inclusive and independent print permanence testing program in the industry. I'm getting there slowly but surely and with greatly appreciated help from industry pros like Mike. I take heart that professionals with his integrity and commitment to photography are now actively helping to fund AaI&A memberships and embracing the idea that truly independent print permanence testing can best be accomplished by an enlightened community of end-users.


Mark H. McCormick-Goodhart
Director, Aardenburg Imaging & Archives