Pigmenttitulosteet

Pigmenttitulosteet, known in English as pigment prints, are a type of photographic print created using pigment-based inks. Unlike dye-based inks, which are liquid and penetrate the paper, pigment inks consist of solid particles suspended in a liquid carrier. These particles sit on the surface of the paper or the coating of the paper, forming a protective layer. This fundamental difference in composition leads to significant advantages in terms of longevity and resistance to environmental factors.

The primary benefit of pigment prints is their exceptional archival quality. Pigment inks are far more resistant to fading caused by exposure to light (UV radiation) and atmospheric pollutants compared to dye-based inks. This means that pigment prints can retain their color and detail for many decades, often over a century, when stored and displayed properly. They are also more resistant to moisture and smudging than dye prints.

The process of creating pigment prints typically involves inkjet printing technology, where microscopic nozzles spray precise amounts of pigment ink onto specialized, often coated, papers. The quality of the paper, the printer's resolution, and the specific pigment inks used all contribute to the final appearance and longevity of the print. While historically more expensive and less common than dye prints, advancements in inkjet technology and pigment ink formulations have made them increasingly accessible and popular, especially among artists, photographers, and archivists who prioritize durability and permanence.