There are many factors that determine the final quality of a digital photograph. Images which look fine on screen can in fact be too small to print satisfactorily. In order to ensure you high quality images suitable for transfer over the Internet here are a few guidelines.

The table below shows the best compromise between image quality and file size to produce an excellent quality print. Prints can be made from smaller resolutions however these may exhibit a degree of pixilation or digital graininess.

All images must be in JPEG format. If saving images after editing we recommend you choose a compression level of either BEST ( in some software and cameras ) or in Adobe Photoshop, we recommend a compression level of 8-10. Some Image editors use a scale of 1-100, we recommend 80.

Because of the size of TIF and other uncompressed formats, we can only accept compressed JPEG images via our online ordering service. We do however offer complete support instore for other formats.

For those of you who do not use Adobe Photoshop, Paint Shop Pro or similar photo editing package, we recommend you download a small application Irfanviewr. This free software will enable you to open images saved in a variety of formats and resave them in JPEG format. You can also resize, sharpen and convert images to black and white among other nifty features.

You will need Winzip or a similar program to UNZIP this file after download.

We do not have any set minimum order size. We feel it is important that you are able to use our system at your convenience and many people will want to try out a small order to gain confidence in our service.

It is best to copy all the images you wish to order on to your Hard Disk prior to ordering. When you BROWSE to choose which files to order, the form remembers where each file you wish to upload is stored. If you choose files from one CD-ROM and then choose some from another CD-ROM, the first lot will not be available when it comes time to upload because the CD-ROM is no longer in the drive. If you are unable to copy your images to the Hard Drive you must make sure you only use one disk per order. If choosing to have your photos delivered we will bundle your orders together and you will only be charged a single delivery fee.

Unfortunately this question is a hard one to answer. Many variables come into play when it comes to file upload speeds. A similar sized order may take longer during peak Internet usage times. For your convenience it may be easier to upload large orders at non-peak times, i.e. avoid evenings.

It is important to note that once you begin to upload files, your browser will appear to be busy and your mouse pointer will change to an hourglass icon. If you press STOP in your browser at this stage the upload will be aborted.

It is often a good idea to split your files into two separate orders if you feel the upload time may be considerable. This is also a good idea when sending larger sized files. If your order is to be delivered you will only be charged a single delivery fee for orders made consecutively.

Due to the nature of the Internet it is in the best interests of everyone to keep file sizes to a manageable limit. For this reason we only accept JPEG files online. We have done considerable quality tests on a variety of filesizes and as a general rule there is no noticeable loss of quality when images are compressed at a level 8 or similar JPEG setting.

As a general rule we see no reason to send files larger than 4 megabytes, as this will produce a brilliant quality print up to our largest size 10 x 15". The uploading of larger files is unstable and we cannot guarantee their successful transfer.

When sending larger files remember we have a limit of 50 Megabytes per order. Bulk orders of large files may need to be split into separate orders. Delivery orders placed consecutivley will be charged a single postage fee only.

Due to the large file size required for prints of this size, we are unable to offer this service through our online print ordering service. We can however offer this service instore. If you are unable to visit us but require this service please contact us and we can arrange a custom post or courier service to suit your needs.

All prints are produced using FUJIFILM'S latest digital minilab, the Frontier. Images are exposed onto FUJI Crystal Archive true photographic paper. This ensures your digital photographs are of the highest quality, and will last a lifetime.

This would depend on weather you chose to Collect your photos or have them Posted to your door.

If you elected to Collect your photos then generally speaking they will be ready for you by 12pm the next working day. Occasionally certain larger jobs may require extra time, if this is the case we will contact you on the telephone number you provide. For instance if you sent us your photos on Wednesday evening, they would be ready to collect at our store Thursday at 12pm

Alternatively..

If you asked for your prints to be Posted, they will be posted the following working day, then subject to Australia Post delivery times. To avoid delivery delays you can choose to use Australia Post's Guaranteed next day delivery service at an extra charge.

The issue of unwanted image cropping when printing digital photographs is one of the problems facing both consumers and photo labs. It basically comes down to the fact that digital cameras are made to shoot images that will fit well on a computer monitor rather than the 35mm ratio ( 3:2 ) traditionally used by photographers. This has led to much frustration when images have arrived with portions of the top and bottom missing from the print or the prints themselves have been produced in an unusual shape that will not fit into an existing frame or photo album.

At PHOTOQ we want to educate our customers and give them the information so they can make an informed choice on how to handle this issue. Below is a list of printing options available and some methods to ensure your satisfaction.

	option 1 - digital camera ratio printed at 6x4.5 inches ( digicam size ) ............................................................................................................................................. PROS: Fits complete image without any cropping while maintaining size. CONS: Will not fit a standard album or frame. costs an extra 10 cents.
	option 2 - digital camera ratio printed at 6x4 inches ( standard size ) ............................................................................................................................................. PROS: Standard photo size fits right into existing albums and frames. CONS: Machine will automatically crop top and bottom of image.
	option 3 - digital camera ratio printed at 6x4 using "no crop mode" ............................................................................................................................................. PROS: Avoids unwanted cropping while fitting in existing albums and frames. CONS: Smaller image magnification.
In addition to the above options there are two other methods of avoiding unwanted cropping. The first method is to find out if your digital camera offers a 3:2 ratio mode. This enables the camera to shoot in the same format as regular 35mm cameras. You will therefore make cropping and composition choices at the time of shooting and safely order 6x4 inch prints. The second method is to manually crop your images to a 3:2 ratio to ensure that the important parts of the image are maintained. In Adobe Photoshop, choose the cropping tool and set the target size to 6 x 4 inches at 300dpi and begin cropping. Other software packages operate in a similar manner.

If you do not have access to a credit card, you have the option of direct debit into PHOTOQ's bank account. Please email us for further details.

We are currently processing all credit card transactions off-line. This means that when you supply us with your details on our secure order form, we then manually and reliably enter the details into our instore register. This may take from 1 - 12 hours depending on when your order is submitted. You will be given a transaction receipt along with your order.

The short answer is that the Internet is one of the safest places to use your credit card. We spent many hours ensuring that your details are secure. We have invested in access to Secure Web Server. For those with technical knowledge this is known as SSL ( Secure Socket Layer ) Technology. This technology is at the forefront of Internet security in this day, and is the one used by the worlds largest online shopping services such as Amazon.com.

Your web browser will verify when you are on a secure website. Those using Internet Explorer on a PC will notice a small icon of a gold padlock in the lower right hand side of their window. Clicking on this icon will bring up authentication of the site's secure status.

An icon similar to this in your browser bar denotes a secure site.

This may happen for a number of reasons and in the event we will telephone you immediately. The most common cause of declined transactions is a typographical error when entering your details. If after contacting you an approved transaction cannot be made, you can choose to Collect your order and pay by Cash of EFTPOS at PHOTOQ 143 High Street, KEW.

While we package all our orders with the greatest of care, occasionally items may be damaged in circumstances beyond our control. It is most important however that you receive your prints in perfect condition. Therefore if you find your prints have been damaged, no matter how slight it may be, please contact us immediately and we will arrange a fresh order.

If for any reason you are not completely satisfied with your fulfilled order please contact us immediately. You can telephone us on 03-9855-0006 during business hours or email support@photoq.com.au. Your satisfaction is important and we will do our best to rectify any problems.

The short answer is yes we can print from digital video camera JPEG images. Please be aware however that some video cameras produced better results than others. A lot of the first generation video/still cameras produced still images of a resolution unsuitable for printing. We suggest you send us a test image and we can print it out and advise you on the quality.

Part of our mission at PHOTOQ is to offer a complete service for everyone. Some people find that their connection is too slow or unstable to easily send large orders. Often people with a large amount of images find it easier to send a cd. Pricing is also identical to our online service.

To ensure we can complete your order correctly we suggest that you download our mailorder form. Turnaround times, payment methods and guidelines can be found in this form.

Download PHOTOQ mailorder form in PDF format.

You will need the free Adobe Acrobat Reader to view this document. You can download it from the link below.

There are a number of factors that can cause problems when using internet based services. The following is a list of possible causes:

Busy Network:
Due to the nature of the internet, traffic can sometimes become bottlenecked from certain servers. Peak times, network failures and maintanence among a variety of other reasons can can contribute to problems of this nature. Generally you will find trying again a little later will help.

High Network Security:
We have encountered a number of connection problems from people wishing to access our site from workplace and institutional computers. Often times the networks these computers are connected to have a high level of security. Firewalls installed on these systems often block unauthorised outgoing data, while others simply enforce broad restrictions on usage. If you are experiencing problems, please speak to your Network Administrator or IT Manager.

Software:
Certain software such as Advertisment blocking utilities and firewall security packages can cause problems with uploads. You can either disable such software or refer to the product documentation for details on how to modify the configuration.

Browser settings:
When you use our service, your details are protected through the use of 128 bit SSL encryption technology. Some people have reported having problems when the local security settings in their browser is set too high. Setting your security level this high will result in an impaired use of the internet, which can also affect the ability to use our service. Try changing your security preferences to Medium. Also note that many browsers 5 years or older do not support the use of encryption and can therefore be troublesome. If in doubt, check for an update for your browser.

If you are still having difficulties using our service, please feel free to contact us or use our postal order service. Please note that we cannot accept photo attachments sent to our email address.

While we have taken every step to ensure a safe and secure system we do understand that some people would rather not submit their details online. If this is the case, simply type 'call for number' in the space provided for credit card numbers and we will contact you via telephone. For those without a credit card, contact us for details on payment via bank deposit.

All orders are printed at the PHOTOQ store by our trained staff. Unlike some of our competitors, we have total control of the process ensuring we can provide an excellent level of service every time. Your order is printed individually by our staff, who ensure each order is correct and will endevour to contact you should we spot any potential problems or possible miscommunication. We believe a touch of personal service goes a long way.

We have many frequent business customers ranging from Real Estate Agents to Sporting event photographers. The fast uptake of digital cameras is making quite an impact on the way many businesses handle their photographic needs. Online ordering with PHOTOQ can provide fast, professional and reliable turnaround for businesses. We are happy to discuss any special requirments to meet the needs of your business.

Many of the digital cameras around today suffer from producing images that when viewed or printed straight from the camera have a flat and low contrast look about them. When images are printed on the FUJI FRONTIER it employs a series of image enhancement algorithms known as AUTO CORRECT. The software reads the EXIF data ( a listing of camera settings and variables saved in the file at the time of shooting ) and determines if any co lour, density of contrast changes need to be made. In most situations this setting along with the use of careful colour and density correction by the PHOTOQ staff can greatly enhance the look of the final print.

There are however some cases in which any colour and density correction, both automatic and operator assisted would be unsuitable. Those that have already edited and colour corrected their images can choose the NO CORRECTIONS mode when ordering photographs. When selected, no automatic or operator assisted corrections will be made to your images. Our FUJI FRONTIER is calibrated everyday to ensure that those co lour correcting their own images will experience a consistent result.

We strongly suggest that those selecting NO CORRECTIONS should be aware that we cannot take any responsibility for the look of the final print. We therefore suggest that a small test order be made to determine any difference between the customers monitor and our FUJI FRONTIER.

An example of a digital camera image with a flat and low contrast look.		The same image with Automatic and Operator assisted correction.

We have found NetMeter, a useful freeware tool for Windows users that provides a visual status of the current upload speed and total data sent. This can verify that data is indeed being transferred and can also provide useful feedback on the speed and progress of the transfer.

Please note that this tool measures bandwidth to and from your entire computer and not just our website. If you have other software uploading files you may get inconsistent results for that period.

Download your free copy of Netmeter.

Our store is open from 8:30am until 6:00pm on Weekdays and from 9:00am until 5:00pm on Saturdays. We are closed on Sundays.