In a move to support local imaging talent Canon Middle East is partnering with leading photographer -Wouter Kingma, for the launch of the region’s first photography print online retail store. The online concept titled, ‘Art on the Move’ – sells handcrafted limited edition photo prints with a story to art enthusiasts in the region all produced on Canon’s imagePROGRAF 8400 large format printer.
“Professional photographers and creative industries rely on Canon as the industry standard for imaging and printing excellence. With this in mind, Canon is committed to providing the highest standards of support to individuals passionate about the art of imaging. At Canon Middle East we nurture a passion for the power of image, providing local talent with solutions that empower creativity and innovation. It is rewarding to see Wouter Kingma’s entrepreneurial vision come to life with Canon technology,” said Hendrik Verbrugghe, Marketing Director, Canon Middle East.
“Wouter’s photography showcased at the exhibition is an excellent example which demonstrates Canon’s holistic input to output solutions including images captured using EOS 1Dx and recreated on large format prints using the iPF8400,” added Verbrugghe.
In addition to using the EOS 1D X DSLR camera, Wouter Kingma used the Canon iPF8400 large format printer to produce awe-inspiring prints of his 11 year imaging portfolio for his first solo photography exhibition. The iPF8400 is designed for graphics arts professionals for up to 44” printing. This large format printer incorporates LUCIA EX, Canon’s 12-colour pigment inkjet system with image processing technology.
Commenting on his experience of using Canon technology, Kingma said: “This project has really opened my eyes to the capabilities of large-format printing. It’s hugely exciting to be able to construct eye-catching, impactful prints using a printer like the iPF8400. I met with Canon to discuss the concept for the exhibition and they talked me through the different possibilities, including the substrates that we would work with. The print definition was very fine and it had excellent colour saturation and vibrancy. It’s also incredibly productive, which was essential for this project.”
“I could strongly rely on the iPF8400 for enhanced black reproduction and graduation expression in dark areas, resulting in the exceptional print quality required for photo print applications. The quality of the print was exactly as promised –outstanding. The colours came out brilliantly, and the graphics produced on the iPF8400 were an essential element in achieving the overall impact we had envisaged for the show,” added Kingma.
The online store concept was debuted with Wouter Kingma’s solo exhibition featuring images across four key themes including Arabia Arabia, Aerial Photography of the Emirates, Movement Series and mesmerising shots of the Adrian Hayes expedition across the Empty Quarter named Footsteps of Thesiger. During the solo exhibition Wouter Kingma also hosted two engaging workshops with 20 budding photographers giving them insights into how to host a solo exhibition in addition to providing practical tip and tricks in DSLR photography.