Art Director’s Guide to Purchasing the Right Large Format Printer for their Movie Set
In the bustling world of movie production, where the artistry of set design and the vibrancy of movie posters come to life, the importance of selecting the right large format printer cannot be overstated.
At Steven Enterprises, we understand the unique needs of movie studios, art directors, and production assistants.
Our expertise has made us a trusted ally in the film industry, providing not just printers but comprehensive solutions for shows, set designs, and even the occasional scene poster.
In this blog post, we’ll explain what you need to watch out for when buying a printer for your movie set and which printers we recommend to our clients.
Essential Considerations for Your Movie Studio’s Printer Purchase
The role of an Art Director encompasses numerous responsibilities, among which making cost-effective yet efficient decisions about production tools is paramount.
A wrong choice in your large format printer can lead to increased costs in plotter supplies, and delays due to plotter repairs, affecting your project’s budget and timeline drastically.
1. Movie Set Space Efficiency is Key
Space on set is often limited, and in places like Warner Brother’s Studios or a quaint set in Los Angeles, this constraint is even more pronounced.
The HP T2600 large format printer stands out as the ideal “multifunctional printer” for such environments.
Although it’s a compact design, it offers both scanning and printing capabilities. For movie sets with diverse needs of from their production teams, this is a crucial feature to not overlook.
2. The Advantage of Local Printer Suppliers & Repairs
Opting for a cheaper, international printer might seem like a good idea initially, but the long-term implications could be detrimental.
The complexity of large format printers makes them prone to issues.
A local supplier near your movie set ensures your team can get swift repairs and supply restocks, minimizing downtime for your filming days.
For those in Southern California, especially in Los Angeles County, Steven Enterprises offers next-day services and a dedicated Account Specialist to ensure your production runs smoothly.
3. Benefits of Renting over Buying Plotters
Not every movie studio needs a permanent printing solution.
For temporary needs, such as during the production phase, renting a printer can be a more viable option.
This flexibility is something we provide at Steven Enterprises, alongside hassle-free pickup services post-production, allowing you to focus on the more critical aspects of your project.
Best Printer for Movie Studios in 2024
The production of a movie or show demands a versatile printer capable of handling a wide array of tasks. For example, printing scripts and call sheets, creating stunning set designs, and printing promotional materials.
Our expert printing specialists recommend the HP T2600 for its unparalleled efficiency and versatility on set.
Benefits of the HP T2600 for Movie Sets
- Collaboration and Efficiency: Engineered to manage multiple jobs simultaneously without creating a bottleneck.
- Fast Prints: With printing speeds up to 180 D/hr, this printer makes it easy to print call sheets in minutes.
- Ease of Use: Features like automatic print stacking and dual rolls simplify operation for everyone on set.
- Security: With HP Secure Boot and whitelisting, your sensitive movie and show production information remains protected.
- Quality and Versatility: Delivers precise drafts and vibrant 3D renders with HP Bright Office Inks, catering to all your set design needs.
Alternative Printer For Marketing and Promotional Materials
Now, this is likely not your role but you might benefit from knowing it. When your marketing team is ready to begin promotions, we have a different recommendation.
When the time comes to market your movie, the HP Z-Series printers emerge as the superior choice for printing marketing materials, thanks to their fine art printing capabilities.
For outdoor posters, consider the Canon Colorado, known for its durable prints that withstand the elements, perfect for outdoor promotions.
Why Partner with Steven Enterprises?
For over three generations, Steven Enterprises has stood by the Southern California movie production industry, providing everything from plotter supplies and equipment to repair services and expert consultations.
Our dedication to delivering top-notch large-format printing and scanning solutions makes us the ideal partner. We often work with art directors, production assistants, and movie producers seeking excellence.
Need help choosing the right printer for your movie set?
We’re here to ensure you have the best tools at your disposal. In addition, we’ll also make sure you have the right support for supplies and repairs.
Contact us today by filling out this form or call us at 800-491-8785 to get the right printing solution for your movie set.
