29 Jan 2025
Kelly Roest. Profotonet.
Every professional print lab has its own hero, this hero ensures the highest possible quality to be delivered to the customer. They are photo enthusiasts and experts in their field. In our opinion these heroes deserve a spotlight, therefore we will regularly ask one of these heroes to tell their story.
This time we have interviewed Kelly Roest of Profotonet in The Netherlands.
She is having years of experience, a passion for photography, staying innovative and a keen eye for good quality prints.
Who are you?
I am Kelly Roest
At what photolab are you working?
Profotonet.
Profotonet is just as mad about images as you are. Better yet: it’s where our roots lie. We also stood behind the camera once. At our ImageLAB in Capelle a/d IJssel we are at the ready to help every fanatical image maker striving for ultimate image quality.
Our goal is to print images as well and beautifully as possible, giving each exhibit the attention it deserves.
Could you please tell us about your professional background?
After college, I began working in production at Profotonet. Following a brief stint at Starbucks, I decided to return to Profotonet, where I am now the Team Lead for the department Prints.
What has inspired you to enter into the photographic printing business?
The main reason is that I wanted to work with photo prints in a production environment.
Can you tell us about your passion within the imaging business?
Besides the fact that I really enjoy photographing myself, I also love the satisfaction of helping people showcase their creativity, celebrate important life events, or decorate their spaces.
How do you think digitalization has influenced photographic printing business?
Personally, I believe this has created numerous opportunities. It is now much easier to have files processed by a print center. The quality and color range of digital image processing have significantly improved and continue to evolve. Digitization has made highly customizable products possible, allowing consumers to create photo books, prints on canvas, and various types of wall decorations.
What do you like most about Fujifilm Original Photo Paper?
In my opinion, Fujifilm’s photo paper remains the global standard for photochemical photo paper. Across all variations (lustre, glossy, matte, etc.), its quality is unparalleled, and its color range is exceptional.
Do you have any favourite Fujifilm Original Photo Paper?
Fujifilm Type DPII Lustre
How do you see the future of the professional printing business?
I foresee that photochemical printing will continue to hold a significant share in the coming years. However, I believe the future will gradually shift toward inkjet technology. That said, it will take a long time before inkjet prints achieve the same “photochemical feel”.
What advice would you give to upcoming photographers?
I think it’s crucial to first learn to see well. Focus on composition, light, and emotion. Understand your strengths and work on improving your weaknesses. Master the technical aspects of photography to the point where your camera becomes a seamless tool, enabling you to create the image you envision in your mind. When you reach that stage, your photographs will naturally tell the story you want to convey.
How do you challenge the photographer to go to print?
It’s also essential to give photographers the opportunity to experience what it feels like to have their work printed. The tactile experience of a printed photograph often speaks for itself. Once a photo is printed and a photographer holds it in their hands, it evokes a deeper emotional connection than simply viewing it on a screen.
