Across the globe, photofinishing businesses are increasingly adopting alternative photo printing technologies to overcome the limitations of traditional silver halide methods. Silver halide replacement (SHR) is emerging as a leading solution, utilizing digital printing technology paired with advanced laminating solutions to achieve high-quality photographic results. Nobelus® University has previously explored the silver halide replacement (SHR) process and the necessary equipment for photofinishing applications. In this article, we delve into a real-world success story, examining how Hr Imaging Partners Inc., a prominent photofinishing company, integrated SHR into their operations and achieved remarkable improvements.
Introducing HR Imaging Partners Inc.
Located in Ottawa, IL, HR Imaging Partners Inc. stands out as a family-operated business specializing in school portraits and yearbook photography. They cater to students from elementary to high school, emphasizing student expression through creative studio props and diverse backgrounds. With nearly fifty years of experience in the photography sector, HR Imaging Partners Inc. possesses deep roots in traditional photofinishing techniques. Michael Chambliss, the Digital Development Manager at HR Imaging Partners Inc., recalls, “We started out shooting on film and doing all the traditional, conventional processing and printing of work.” However, like many in the photofinishing industry, HR Imaging Partners Inc. began encountering challenges inherent to the silver halide process.
The Drive for Innovation
HR Imaging Partners Inc. identified several factors that motivated their shift away from conventional silver halide processes. A critical factor was the urgent need to replace aging equipment. “We were in a position where we needed equipment, whether we continued with the silver halide process or not,” Chambliss explained. He further elaborated, “[In] the past 10 years, I’d say, that process has become a little antiquated… and we felt that it was time to make a change and to figure out whether we wanted to actually invest in new equipment or whether we wanted to go to the next level.” Rising material costs for silver halide and extended production times were additional concerns that HR Imaging Partners Inc. aimed to resolve by transitioning to a more contemporary system. Chambliss emphasized the financial advantages, stating, “It made no sense to continue with [silver halide] when we could save 35% on cost of goods, which easily made our equipment payments with all new equipment.”
Ultimately, the leadership team at HR Imaging Partners Inc. made the strategic decision to move beyond silver halide. They invested in a digital press, immediately realizing faster photo processing speeds. However, these digitally printed photographs required enhanced protection compared to the chemical processes and photo paper they had historically relied upon. After thorough research and careful consideration, HR Imaging Partners Inc. chose to partner with Nobelus for their lamination requirements. “After looking at different laminators, different UV coaters, and running lots of tests, I chose Nobelus because they were able to provide something that would keep up with our rate of production during our busy season, give us that exact look and feel that ended up being a conventional silver halide print, and also save us a lot of money,” Chambliss noted, highlighting the comprehensive benefits of Nobelus solutions.
Today, HR Imaging Partners Inc. continues to reap the rewards of the SHR photofinishing method, leveraging cutting-edge digital printing technology and high-speed lamination systems. Chambliss succinctly summarized the positive impact of switching to SHR on the company’s financial performance: “The cost savings of going with an SHR product were in the neighborhood of 30-35%. It was in the neighborhood of 750,000 prints that you were making in a 60- to 90-day period. We cut out weeks of production time. We were in the neighborhood of 15 to 20 days from the time we photographed a student; we’re now at 7-10 days.” This dramatic reduction in turnaround time and significant cost savings underscores the transformative effect of SHR for HR Imaging Partners Inc.
Further insights and details can be found in a video interview with Chambliss and other case studies available here.
Is SHR the Right Move for Your Business?
The success story of HR Imaging Partners Inc. is representative of a growing trend among photofinishers recognizing the compelling advantages of SHR in terms of cost efficiency and reliability. In an era marked by supply chain disruptions, extended lead times, and escalating material costs, alternative photo printing methods like SHR are more crucial than ever for photofinishing businesses seeking to replace or enhance their silver halide workflows. If your operation, like HR Imaging Partners Inc., aims to elevate its capabilities and reduce dependence on silver halide, Nobelus is prepared to partner with you. Nobelus offers comprehensive support for SHR implementation, from their specialized PlatinumSHR™ Laminate to a diverse range of GMP laminating systems. Their dedicated customer care team provides clear guidance, in-house service technicians ensure the optimal performance of your laminating systems, and solutions experts offer step-by-step support throughout the transition to this advanced workflow.
