Need 30 x 38 prints

[Cynthia in Alameda]

Working backwards from my goal of a 30 x 38 in print, where do I need to start. I've got the 20D, and haven't won the lottery yet, so can't buy the 16mp 1DS Mark II. I've been planning on splitting up my picture, zooming in and taking portions of the whole shot and sewing them together to make a huge pic. Only problem is I was planning on getting a graduated neutral density filter to take my landscapes, and realized that my planned strategy might not work with the GND.

Will I be able to pull this off with the 20D?

[tim]

How close will people be to the print? If they're 1 or 2 meters away (that's 3-6 feet) then just take a photo with the 20D, crop to the correct ratio, and print at a decent lab.

If people will be really close then take perhaps six shots on two different exposure settings - one for the highlights, one for each part of the image, as an ND filter will have done. Or just shoot one set and use the CS2 shadows and highlights tool, which I find works really well, and can be easier than HDR or merging images.

[Cynthia in Alameda]

Thanks Tim, I'll have to experiment to see what I can come up with.

[chtgrubbs]

My first suggestion is to rent an 1Ds and high quality lens (if you dont already have one). Next best suggestion would be to rent the good lens and use a really good lab to do your printing. They can process your file to get the best quality enlargement.

[Cynthia in Alameda]

Renting the 1DS isn't in my budget right now, so I'll have to stitch if I can make it work. :( I need to save my $$ for other needed gear.

[Dchemist]

You might follow Tim's advice - you should be easily able to get a decent 30x38 print from your 20D without doing anything special if you will view it at normal distances.

[Cynthia in Alameda]

I will. First step is to get one of my better prints blown up to that size and see what it looks like, then make some decisions. Thanks guys!

[tim]

I've used Elco (http://www.elcocolor.com/hot_internet_only_specials.htm) with great results. Read all their instructions and FAQs.

[Cynthia in Alameda]

I've used Elco (http://www.elcocolor.com/hot_internet_only_specials.htm) with great results. Read all their instructions and FAQs.
Cool, I'll check that out!