The Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1000 Professional Photographic Inkjet Printer: A Detailed Review

This robust 17 x 22-inch printer is designed for professional photographers, artists, and designers who require gallery-quality prints with impressive color accuracy and detail. Here’s an in-depth look at what makes the Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1000 a top choice for serious creatives.

Key Features

1. Print Size and Resolution

   • The Canon PRO-1000 supports print sizes up to 17 x 22 inches, perfect for creating larger-than-life prints or stunning full-bleed photographs. This size is also ideal for galleries or exhibitions where you need images that make an impact.
   • With a maximum resolution of 2400 x 1200 dpi, this printer delivers incredibly sharp and vibrant prints, maintaining all the detail and richness of the original image.

2. LUCIA PRO Ink System

   • One of the standout features of the PRO-1000 is its 12-color LUCIA PRO pigment ink system. This high-end pigment ink not only enhances color accuracy and vibrancy but also increases print longevity. The pigments provide a broad color gamut, particularly in darker tones, enabling deep blacks and a range of grays.
   • The Chroma Optimizer further smooths out glossiness and reduces bronzing for a more uniform print, adding depth and realism to printed images.

3. Professional Print & Layout Software

   • Canon’s Professional Print & Layout (PPL) software integrates seamlessly with popular editing programs like Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom. This software provides easy-to-use color management tools, layout options, and soft proofing capabilities, giving users more control over the final look of their prints.
   • It also includes a handy feature for setting up multiple images in one print layout, making it convenient for contact sheets or creative compositions.

4. Air Feeding System

   • The vacuum air feeding system is one of the most innovative features of the PRO-1000. This system holds the paper firmly in place throughout the printing process, ensuring precise ink placement and reducing the risk of skewed prints.
   • For those using heavier or textured media, this feature is particularly beneficial, as it prevents potential paper jamming or misalignment, which can compromise print quality.

5. Nozzle Recovery and Anti-Clogging Technology

   • To reduce downtime and maintenance, the Canon PRO-1000 comes with nozzle recovery and anti-clogging technology. This system detects and compensates for clogged nozzles without halting the entire print job.
   • This feature helps ensure consistent print quality while minimizing the need for frequent nozzle cleanings, a time-saver for photographers with high printing demands.

6. Compatibility with Multiple Paper Types

   • The PRO-1000 can print on a variety of media types, including fine art papers, glossy and semi-gloss photo paper, matte paper, and canvas. It supports Canon’s own line of premium photo papers as well as third-party paper brands, making it highly versatile for users with diverse printing needs.

7. Wi-Fi, USB, and Ethernet Connectivity

   • For ease of use, the Canon PRO-1000 offers multiple connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, USB, and Ethernet. This allows users to print directly from computers, tablets, or smartphones, facilitating a more efficient workflow.
   • The Wi-Fi feature is a notable advantage, especially for studios or home offices where a wireless setup can streamline operations and reduce clutter.

Performance and Print Quality

The Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1000 is engineered to deliver gallery-quality prints, making it a favorite among photographers and artists. The LUCIA PRO ink system is capable of producing a remarkable range of colors, capturing minute details and subtle gradations. With its 12-ink setup, the PRO-1000 achieves deep blacks and vibrant colors, perfect for high-contrast images and monochromatic photography.

User Experience and Usability

• The 3-inch color LCD screen provides easy navigation, with clear options for managing printing tasks and adjusting settings.
• Its compact design (for a professional-grade large-format printer) makes it feasible for home studios or small spaces. The weight and size, however, are still substantial, so it requires a dedicated surface to handle its structure and output.
• The air feed system and anti-clog technology mean less downtime, enhancing user satisfaction by minimizing interruptions in printing projects.

Pros and Cons of the Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1000

Pros:

• Superior print quality with 12-color LUCIA PRO pigment inks.
• Broad color gamut with exceptional detail in shadows and highlights.
• Versatile media handling supports various paper types and sizes.
• Anti-clog technology minimizes maintenance.
• Seamless software integration for an improved workflow.

Cons:

• Higher price point compared to consumer-grade photo printers.
• Large and somewhat heavy, which may be inconvenient for some setups.
• Ink cartridges are costly to replace due to the high quality and pigment-based nature of the inks.

Who is the Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1000 Best For?

The PRO-1000 is ideal for professional photographers, artists, and designers who want high-quality, archival-grade prints. It’s especially useful for those involved in gallery work or exhibitions, where image quality and color accuracy are paramount. For photographers printing high-resolution images, the depth and vibrancy provided by the LUCIA PRO inks are invaluable.

Conclusion

The Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1000 Professional Photographic Inkjet Printer is a powerful tool for professionals who prioritize print quality, color fidelity, and durability. Its advanced features like the LUCIA PRO ink system, anti-clog technology, and compatibility with various paper types make it a reliable choice for those seeking to create gallery-quality images at home or in the studio. While the price tag may be steep, the investment is justified for creatives who want to ensure that their images are presented in the best possible light.

This printer is a high-performance choice that delivers outstanding print quality and longevity, cementing Canon’s reputation in professional-grade imaging solutions.