I have made a selection of about 500 images that are my favourites and offer these images for sale.
As I take new images and review old ones the list will grow.
At present I have three types of prints for sale, these being "Standard prints", "Vintage prints", and
"Fine Art" prints.
Standard prints
Standard prints are genuine photographic prints produced by my lab in Brisbane
from digital files I provide.
All standard photographic prints are created using the silver halide process on Kodak
Professional Endura professional photo printing papers. So not only are these true photographic prints fast and inexpensive
they are one of the longest lasting, durable and highest quality photographic prints you can buy.
Standard prints have a lustre surface.
These prints are not considered to be "archival", that said they will easily last to 20
or 30 years if suitably mounted and displayed. For fully archival prints see "Fine Art/Giclée Prints" below.
Vintage prints (coming soon)
Vintage prints were handmade by myself back in the days when I had a darkroom and
a Beseler enlarger. That was way back in the 90s so they are already about 25 years old.
I will never own another darkroom and cannot see any way I would have the opportunity to
use one again, and quite apart from that the printing notes for these images are long lost.
This means that there will never again be handmade prints like these.
These prints were made on Ilford Resin-coated (RC) paper, they are already a quarter of a century old so
should be considered archival by now.
Vintage prints have a lustre surface.
Fine Art/Giclée Prints (coming soon)
While I do consider the term "fine art" to be a little pretentious for photography I believe that it does describe
these prints. They are also known in the industry as "Giclée Prints".
Giclée prints are made on special "inkjet" printers using pigment-based inks on paper that is genuinely archival,
in particular Ilford Gallerie paper...
Ilford Gold Fibre Gloss is a fibre-based stock with a slightly textured, sheen surface.
The paper is coupled with our Ultrachrome inks giving it a wide colour gamut, perfect for vivid images.
The rich finish and range of black inks available also ensures it’s the perfect and best choice, for
high contrast black and white prints.
These prints will last a 100 years or more if suitably stored/displayed. The have the look and feel of
the old fibre-based papers from "back in the day".
Fine art prints are signed, dated, editioned (numbered), and titled on the verso in pencil.
They should be archivally hung on hinges in a frame such that this information remains accessible in years
to come, not lost due to permanent mounting onto a backing board. Proper mounting and framing is generally
a task for a professional framer.
(Limited) editioning is the practice of releasing a finite quantity of numbered prints from a negative
or digital file. It's a marketing ploy designed to drive prices up, some people need the money I suppose,
I don't.
I do not limit the edition of my prints, I do however record the number of each print and in the case
of fine art prints this number is recorded in pencil on the verso.
These posters were once distributed by the same people that handled Ansel Adams' printed works.
They are very high quality.
Material
Printed on heavy grade matt art paper using Crystal Raster (stochastic)
scanning, a process that uses a semi-random dot pattern
to simulate the random placement of grain in film.
Size
Vertical posters are 590x750mm (23x29.5") and horizontal 690x580mm
(27x23").
Text
Each poster has a low key (about 20% grey) signature under the
image and location details in small print at the very bottom.
Price
The posters cost A$20
The introduction of "weird" shapes for many images, most notably
my panoramic photos, has caused me to rethink the way I charge for
prints. For example, a normal shaped photo such as image #29091...
Would sell for about $20 as a 12"-wide print. Whether or not you think it's
worth it I don't know, but I'm pretty sure that you would consider $20
way to pricey for a 12" print of image #10377...
Which would only be 1.2" high.
So what to do? I could have individual pricing for the two photos, but then
there's #21124...
That's a different shape again, and what about #29596?
This photo is square.
Another question to ask is, "Exactly what are you paying for?" Many
photographers consider that you are paying for the print size alone, if
the print is twice the size it's twice the cost. This doesn't make sense.
These days anyone can have a print made at a lab at a reasonable cost.
But what you are really buying is an image you like, and that image was created
through my investment in equipment, my eye, and my effort.
If I climb to the top of a mountain at 4AM lugging 50lbs of expensive equipment
and get a great photo, the effort and cost is the same regardless of the
resultant print size.
To prepare files for printing and package prints is the same amount
of work, pretty much regardless of the print size.
These components of the price are constant, the only variable is the actual
print itself.
Hmmm, constants, variables, as an ex-computer nerd I can feel an algorithm coming
on.
The price of any given print is calculated something like this.
E = effort to take all photos / # of photos ($)
I = investment in equipment / # of photos ($)
W = work to prepare print $
A = area of print
$price = E + I + W + (A x $)
As you can see, the print size is only a small part of the expense in producing
photographs. Is this overkill? Maybe, but it's automatically calculated
by each photo's gallery page on this web site so, having developed the
code, I no longer have to maintain messy tables of sizes and prices.
But why should I buy your photos when I can take pictures myself with my new
digital camera? No reason, if you're prepared to bust your guts to get to the
great places, have the eye to make good images when you get there, and
are willing to spend thousands on the right equipment then learn how to
use it to get good results, go for it.
If
that's the case then you're probably already a photographer and won't
buy my photos anyway
Photographs are available in 13 generic sizes. The table below shows the physical sizes
of the longest edge of the physical print, there is always a white border so the actual image
will be smaller, sometimes by as much as 4" as the larger prints have 2" boarders.
10"
(254mm)
12"
(305mm)
14"
(355mm)
16"
(405mm)
20"
(508mm)
24"
(610mm)
30"
(762mm)
40"
(1016mm)
50"
(1270mm)
60"
(1524mm)
70"
(1778mm)
80"
(2032mm)
The other dimension of the photo will
depend on the shape of the image. Not all sizes are available for all
images, and the sizes are nominal, ie. they can change slightly according
to the image shape. If you need to know exactly what
size an image will be get in touch.
Why are some photos not available in certain sizes?
Two reasons, print size and scan resolution. Take the two hypothetical
photos depicted in the following graphics...
It doesn't make sense to print LONG PHOTO
at 10 inches in width because it would only be 1 inch high. At the other
end of the scale, to print SQUARE PHOTO 65 inches wide it would also
have to be 65 inches high, this would require a scan of 19,500x19,500
pixels which equates to a 790mb file. None of my photos are capable
of being scanned to that resolution, although some come close.
The table at the bottom of each photo's
folio page will detail the sizes available for that photo.
Having said that, custom and often
larger sizes can usually be made, it depends on the image. Contact
me for details on other sizes.
If, for any reason, you are not entirely happy with your purchase you
may return it, in original condition, within seven days of receiving
it, for exchange or a full refund of the print price.
The very nature of the Internet means that the images
you view on this site cannot possibly match the tones and colours
of an actual print.
This means that the print you receive may not be exactly
as you saw on this site.
As I say above though, if you're not happy I'll fix
the problem or refund your money. See the testimonials section below
for an example.
The print you receive should last a
lifetime if not displayed in full sunlight or areas of high UV. If for
some reason this does not turn out to be the case, I will replace the
print free of charge on verification that the old one has been destroyed.
I'm happy to say that I have not had one return yet,
which is why I feel confident to offer this unconditional guarantee.
I have removed the direct PayPal service to pay for products on this
site. You can still use PayPal if you want but we'll do the transaction manually.
If you don't want to use PayPal a direct debit, cheque or other method is OK.
Email me to arrange things.
The checkout will pre-fill an email form with the details of the images you want, you
can edit this email to add any instructions you like. Once we've made contact we can
sort out the details via email
This way there is no commitment on your part until we agree on everything.
I live in Australia and deal with Australian dollars, as such prices on this site
are also shown in AU$.
However you can select another currency of the 12 supported on the
Preference page This won't show everywhere and is an approximation based on the exchange rate on the day I last entered
the rates. But it will give you a good idea of prices in your currency.
Under no circumstances will your details be revealed to any person or business
other than those directly involved in the processing of your order.
Rob Gray Photography is the sole owner of the information collected on this
site. I will not sell, or rent this information to others in any way,
nor will I place you on my mailing list, mostly because I don't have one
.
Susan,
Spring House, PA, SA
Received your pictures yesterday. They arrived in great shape. I
should have them back from the framer soon to join the other pictures
purchased from your collection.
I hope you continue to add to the face collection. I've had several
positive comments about your work when I have visitors to my home.
Best regards,
Susan
Johan,
Paris, France
I received the prints yesterday, they are really beautiful, better
than I imagined, Thanks a lot!
Larry, New York,
USA
They arrived and they are wonderful. Just as I had hoped for. I'll
be getting them framed and matted next week, and then they'll be hanging
on my wall.
Gavin, NSW, Australia
Just wanted to write to you after recently getting one of your posters,
of the image 'God's portal'. It's a lovely image, and the poster brings
out a depth of subtlety which isn't so easily seen in the web version.
Robert, NSW, Australia Purchased your CD of the website some weeks ago, have had a great
time rereading your journals of building the motor home and the "getReal"
journals of your travels to date. I love your sense of humour, I cracked
up many a time while reading.
Would enjoy more ongoing details re the motor home expenses/consumption,
etc.etc, if possible.
I have enjoyed looking through the 1200 odd photos too.
This CD was the best value $30 I have spent in a long time.
Jim, Texas, USA Rob, I received my print yesterday -- "Bridal Veil Falls
II".
I'm extremely pleased with the composition and luminance displayed
in the photo. It's very comforting to know that the fine art black
& white print process is still alive and well. Such beautiful
tones.
Thanks so much for the care used in packaging
and shipping. The presentation folder is a wonderful touch. Looking
forward to purchasing my next print. Perhaps on my birthday -- only
a few months away!
Peter, Belguim
I've just received your photographs and I must say they're absolutely
great! They'll be awarded a very special place in our house.
Phill, Norwich, UK
Received the prints today. I must say that I was a little overwhelmed
by the detail in Eroded Dome compared to the web version. Its only
when you can compare them in the flesh that you truely appreciate
Superb work, well done. I am sure I will purchase a few more as and
when the money is flowing more freely.
Thanks
for the prompt service and of course for the photos.
PS. Seems that others from APUG are also very
pleased with their purchases.
Sarah, Broken Hill,
Aus.
I received the prints and they are fantastic, thankyou. I am getting
them framed as we speak.
Nazli, Sydney, Aus.
The quality of the photograph was better than I had imagined. The
contrast of the 'black' rock and the 'white' light made it a perfect
black and white photo!
Thank you.
I have now completed my set of three b&w photos,
and I think this one is my favourite.
Thank you again.
Laura, New York,
NY, USA
I received the print last week and I love it - it's beautiful!
Thanks and all the best
In February 2003 I received
an order for a 60x30" print of Geehi Sunset from Lou
and Gail in St Louis, MO. The print was delivered in a damaged condition
due, we think, to over inquisitive customs officials. The story
unfolded as is shown in the following excerpts from our emails.
Hi Rob
Unfortunately, I have some distressing news -- the photo was delivered
today with significant damage.
It was delivered at about 1230. Within the half hour, my wife and
I then took it to Pace Framing and Graphics, which is just a few
blocks from our home. Paula Lincoln, one of the framers there, cut
open one end of the sealed tube, peered inside and said, "Oh,oh."
Our hearts sank...Rob, the image is gorgeous and the reason we rushed
straight away to the framers was so that we could have it up as
soon as possible. But we can't, in all good conscious, proceed to
have it framed with the damage it's suffered...Of course we feel
terrible about all this, but need to know what can be done now?
Lou
Lou also sent several photos of the damage, one
of which is below.
Hi Lou,
Firstly, I'll send you a new print ASAP so don't worry about that...my
guess is that some curious soul in customs has decided to take a
peek...I'll order a new print today and get it done as fast as possible.
I should be able to ship it within a week.
Hi Rob
First let me thank for getting another print sent out. That is deeply
appreciated...I was wondering about the customs thing to, because
I can't imagine anyone at your end handling the print in a manner
that would cause so much wrinkling and I personally saw the care
our framer took in opening the tube and taking it out at this end...I
took another close look at the tube and your theory may be right
on...
Hi Lou,
Your print left today...
Hi Rob
Great news about the print being on it's way...We (as I guess you)
are most fervently wishing for this one to arrive in sound condition.
Seeing the print that was damaged was so frustrating, yet tantalizing.
We have a small collection of large scale B&W's in our second
story loft and Geehi Sunset will be the crown jewel. It really is
an amazing shot, but then, I suppose you know that :-)
Hi Rob
Well, this is a first -- Sunday delivery! Geehi arrived this morning
-- with the tube and Australian flag stickers intact.
Hi Rob
All is well in St. Louis! I took the shipping tube to Pace Framing
and Paula carefully opened and unwrapped the print. It arrived in
immaculate condition -- thanks for the extra care in packing.
Hi Rob
Well, Paula from the frame shop delivered Geehi Saturday. With a
4 1/2" mat all around, it's huge and it took a van to get it
here. Yesterday we hung it. It was a project that took several hours
because I had to carefully measure the placement of the supporting
bolts and then figure a way to hoist it up about 20'...
The photo is breathtaking, looks unbelievable and I've attached
a photo of us celebrating.
Thanks again, Rob. I can look to my left as I'm typing this and
though I can't quite explain it, there is something very rejuvenating
about Geehi Sunset. It's grand.
Regards
Lou
Lou & Gail celebrate after
getting Geehi Sunset on their wall. The print doesn't
look very large here, but it's over five feet wide.
As they say in the classics, "All's
well that ends well". My thanks to Lou and Gail for allowing
me to use this story and their photos.
Toni, Jersey City,
NJ, USA
I received my poster and it's beautiful. I am having it framed so
I can hang it in my living room. Thank you
James, Incline Village,
NV, USA
Thanks so much for the follow-up. The poster got here in terrific
shape and now hangs in my living room. People ask about it and admire
your work.
On the other wall is some of my work and people ask me, "Is this
the same guy?" I'm flattered they'd even think so. Anyway, I'll
be ordering again soon - keep up the travels and excellent work.
Tennille, Washington
DC, USA
The posters are fantastic. They make wonderful gifts for my new
American friends, and also do a nice job of reminding me of home
on my own walls. Thankyou so much.
Lynley, Germantown, MD, USA
"Wow! What customer service!!!! Thank you for the follow-up e-mail.
My husband and I have received the poster and absolutely love it.
The photo is striking! I hope that you are able to produce prints
in the near future so that we may continue to view, purchase and appreciate
your work!
Thank you..."
Method
Overseas shipping is by airmail or EMS (Australia Post's international courier).
For Australian destinations I use airmail.
Cost
Shipping costs are,
15 — within Australia
35 — Overseas (by airmail, takes up to 2 weeks once shipped)
50 — Overseas (by EMS courier, takes up to 1 week once shipped)
The method is selected in the shopping cart. I regularly send photos all over the world, it's no problem.
FREE SHIPPING for orders of 100 or more.
Packaging
Photos are normally shipped in mailing tubes. Smaller photos are
shipped flat in protective board.
At this point I do not sell photos mounted and/or
matted because of the difficulty in shipping large, flat and delicate
objects.
Time frame
Standard prints are made to order by my lab in Brisbane,
they are printed specifically for you then sent to me for inspection (and optional signing)
before I ship them. This usually takes 1-2 weeks from your order.
The shopping cart will remember photos you have selected for possible purchase.
As you browse the images on this site you
will see "ADD TO CART" links on each photo's gallery page below
the photo's details.
Clicking on the link will add the image
to your shopping cart. It will look something like the example below.
You can remove photos completely by clicking the "Remove" button.
You can select the shipping type, ie. whether the photos will be sent to somewhere
in Australia or overseas and by what means.
All the figures down to, and including,
the total are in Australian dollars. Below the total
you will see a currency converter that will show an approximation
of the total value in your currency.
You can open and close the cart as often
as you like, even weeks later when you next visit my site. As long as
you're using the same computer the information will still be there.
When you are ready to send the email click/tap the "Send enquiry" button.
This will send an email directly to me.
