I would think 8x10 is easy for the camera. Although there have been some questions asked in the main S602 discussion, I haven't seen anything definitive. People respond differently to the prints as to what they feel is acceptable, depends on subject, paper, printer quality, etc. The generalized chart used at B&H's site gives "photo quality" through 5x7 and "excellent" for 8x10 for 3 meg cameras. The coupon comments dealing with the interpolated pictures imply better performance than the usual for 3 megs. I haven't printed any of the samples so I can't give you a first hand report or comparison (mostly because I don't think they have a subject at the highest quality interpolated or a comparison sample at the uninterpolated resolution)...
I routinely print pictures for competition at 13 x 19 (Epson 1270 printer) or have 16 x 20 prints made by Kodak and they tend to win a lot of prizes...
I am a pro photographer, & at our studio we use the 602 regularly for our pro work. In the right hands, the 602 is a solid performer. Some of our clients, esp. graphic designers & the like, have enlarged the 17.2Mb images the 602 produces to billboards of size 6m(eters)by 4m...... with absolutely stunning results. To be honest, we don't see very BIG differences between the S2 & the 602 when it comes to billboards.
Regards,.
JF..
What sort of subject and lighting setup for 602z photos printed out at Billboard size? Obviously I don't want to print at this size but maybe something around 1 - 2 meters wide. Also, what software you use to enlarge images? Thanks Rob..
The printing of billboard size (4m by 6m) adverts is handled by the client, so I can't really comment on the methodolgy or techniques used. As to lighting setup(s) used vis-a-vis subject matter: products/still-life:.
Usually monobloc studio flash units with the usual accessories & attachments, such as softbox, snoot, honeycomb grids, barndoors, etc. occaisonally pure daylight from a window. People:.
A variety of lighting setups according to the situation. From studio shots involving one to three lights; to open daylight to light coming in through a window. Interiors:.
Again, studio lights & daylight coming from a window (to retain the "atmosphere" of the place. On a couple of occaisons I used the "painting with flash" technique; on another a professional lighting company (the client) actually illuminated a palace with different colours. Events:.
Usually reportage style photography. Main subject is Nightclubs & music festivals. By the way: here in Malta I find more difficulty printing sizes between 16"X20 inches to 30"X40" top get that "excellent" result. This could be due to the lesser viewing distance involved than a 4mX6m billboard advert. Regards from Malta, JF..