Schools Services FAQ's

How do I set up my proof card with you?

All you need to do is select a proof card layout from here and complete our proof card set up form. For a step by step guide to Stage A click here.

How long do proof cards take to process?

Proof cards take between 2 and 3 days.

What pack options do you offer on the proof cards?

We offer lots of different pack options some in a 7" ratio and others in a 8" ratio, the choice is yours.

What size proof cards do you offer?

We offer either 7" x 5" or 8" x 6".

Do you supply envelopes for my proof cards?

Yes we have an option to order your proof cards with or without envelopes. See the Proof Card Prices tables on the pages for the different proof card layouts. For example, proof card prices for Single Pose layouts, with and without envelopes can be seen here.

Is there any surcharge for late orders?

Yes we charge £1 per late proof card order. Where possible please send all proofs back in one batch. This then avoids any late order charges.

What will the cost of postage be for my proof cards/printed packs?

Please see our postage rate section for all of our prices. The prices are worked out on size and weight depending on how many prints and the of your order. Up to 200 Proof cards can be sent Recorded Delivery at £6.99. All other orders have to be sent Via courier due to size and weight starting from £9.99.

Can I order prints and have them sent directly to my school?

Yes you can. All you need to do is put their delivery address separate to your billing address on the set up form. They will then be sent directly to the school.

What file format can I send?

Generally JPEG is the standard format but we can also work with tiff files. Where possible, please send JPEGs.

How are the photos packaged?

Each child’s order will be individually packaged in a see-through bag.

What is the biggest file I can send you?

We can deal with any size of file but the bigger the files is, the longer it will take to upload.

What profile should I assign to my school photographs?

Ideally you should assign our own profiles but if not then sRGB is a very close substitute.

What dpi should I use?

300dpi is the optimum based on our printer setup.

What if my prints are damaged in transit?

All of our packing is made bespoke for us. Generally all our orders are received in perfect condition as our packing is tried and tested, we very rarely get any orders damaged. If however your prints are subject to damage in transit then we will reproduce them for you.

Why are your prices so cheap?

Our prices are so cheap as the system we have in place to handle your orders is very automatic. We deal with hundreds of orders each working day allowing us to purchase paper in bulk and then pass our savings on to you.

What is your minimum order?

We do not have a minimum order value.

What paper surfaces do you print on for school proofs and packs?

We only print on lustre paper as for proof cards this is easier for parents to write on, they are also a better suited finish for the mounts.

What type of paper do you print on?

Fuji DP2 Professional paper for the Lustre (this also has copyright written on the reverse of the paper) This suits our professional photographers very well.

What machines do you use?

We use state of the art Fuji Frontier 570 and 7700 Printers.

Do the prints have any cut off? If I am adding text very close to the edges?

Yes, all machines do crop about 2-4mm from the edge of the image so please bear this in mind when sizing your files.

Can I have my prints without any back print on them?

On selected orders pre arranged with the lab this can be possible. (Please note this is not a guaranteed service).

What happens to your waste chemical?

All our waste chemical is stored and then collected by a ISO4001 waste chemical company for safe disposal. Certain elements of the waste chemical are extracted and recycled.

What if I have trouble uploading through the FTP?

If you have any problems uploading through the FTP call us immediately on our direct number 0161 474 8680 so we can troubleshoot with you. Alternatively you can email us at schools@dscolourlabs.co.uk.