Digital Cameras and Photo Development
With the introduction and subsequent explosion of inexpensive digital cameras in the last decade, it seems as though everyone is taking pictures. Whereas before casual photographers were constrained by the amount of exposures available in the roll and the cost of purchasing the film and developing the photos, modern day picture takers face no such limitations. Photographers, beginner and otherwise can now easily and cheaply take hundreds of photos, choosing from the best for the ones they want to print.
As the resolution of these consumer cameras increased, it became possible for users to print ever bigger and bigger pictures. Large format edge-to-edge printers can be purchased for home use for less than three hundred. Consumers are able to quickly and inexpensively print their photos, even when the photo size is non-standard.
Whereas consumers used to be limited to a photo size supported by the developer, they can now print photos in any size they desire. This rapid growth of home and hobby photography has fueled a similar expansion in the production and availability of non=standard picture frames, such as the 12×18 picture frame.
The small size of modern digital cameras means it’s possible to carry them just about anywhere to take pictures of just about anything. You can even buy inexpensive waterproof cameras suitable for taking photos under as much as 15 feet of water – perfect for scuba divers. The high resolution of these cameras means when you end up with a photo you really like, you can get it printed in a variety of different sizes.
Securing a frame for off size prints used to be a bit of a challenge, but those days are past. Now with easy online shopping, it’s much easier to find non-standard size picture frames. A quick search of available online retailers for 12 x 18 picture frames returns thousands of results. Any good frame store will have a good selection of frames for you to choose from, and probably offers professional matting as well.
Today’s photo frames are made from many different types of materials, including wood, steel, aluminum, copper, even stone. If your a crafter who enjoys creating your own, you can even purchase frame kits that give you everything you need to assemble your own frame. It’s easy to find frame styles, materials and colors that match the decor of any room. With a little bit of effort, you can find inexpensive picture frames available online with prices starting as low at $10, and going all the way up to hundreds of dollars.
While traditional optical film companies are seeing a reduction in business, the photo printing and off-size picture frame business is reaping the rewards of technology.