Whether you run a busy photo lab or print your own exhibition work, the moment a print leaves your hands it is exposed to fingerprints, moisture and light. Adding protection is one of the simplest ways to make your prints more robust, and it also lets you offer products that can go where uncoated photographs cannot: unglazed canvases, bathroom walls, cafés and outdoor shows.
Matching the method to your volume
Occasional prints
ClearJet aerosol coatings come in gloss and semi-gloss and suit photographers who coat a few prints at a time. They are easy to store and need no specialist equipment, though a clean, well-ventilated space is important.
Regular studio output
Colourjet liquid coating can be applied by roller for more consistent coverage on larger prints and canvases. It protects against water, chemicals and abrasion, and its integrated UV inhibitors help guard against premature fading.
Lab production
Labs coating every day typically move to a liquid lamination machine for an even, repeatable finish across the roll. Landor supplies these machines, as well as the Kala Applikator flatbed laminator.
Products you can offer
- Coated canvas wraps that can hang without glass
- Large photographic wall prints for homes and businesses
- Removable photo walls on Phototex, a self-adhesive woven fabric that comes off in one piece without damaging the wall and can be repositioned and reused
- Exhibition prints mounted without glazing
Keeping colour under control
Any coating changes how light interacts with the print surface, which can affect perceived saturation and contrast. If you work to tight colour standards, coat a test chart and compare it with an uncoated version under your viewing conditions. Some labs build separate output profiles for coated and uncoated products.
Paper choice also matters. Solvent coatings do not suit every photo paper or ink, so test each media you plan to offer. Landor Liquid Lamination is used on prints from pigment fine art, latex, UV and eco-solvent printers.
Printers and RIPs
Landor has more than 20 years’ experience supplying and installing large format printing systems and RIPs, so we can also help if you are reviewing your print setup alongside finishing.
Tell us how you print and what you want to offer, and we will suggest a coating route. Ring 01252 624 411 or use our contact form.