What goes into the making of your own personal photofractal?
As a consumer all you really need to know is explained in 5 easy steps on the photofractal homepage but for those interested, here we’ll take a closer, behind the scenes look at the actual processes involved in producing your photofractal.
Assuming that you’ve already gone through the 5 steps and we’ve received your photos, the first thing we do is to prepare your source image, which is the overall picture that you want for your photofractal. Here we’ll use the Mona Lisa as an example.
We split the source image into many different shaped cells, depending on the exact pattern and cell size chosen, such as the ones below. The full selection of patterns and cell sizes is displayed on the photofractal homepage with new options being added from time to time as we get suggestions from our customers.
Each of these many cells from the source image are then analysed individually, using a combination of digital and manual techniques, to find their average color, hue, saturation, luminance and overall composition. At the same time, each of the images (cell images) that we receive from you are analysed too, such that an extensive comparison can be performed between each cell on the source image and each cell image. Such a comparison allows us to optimally select the images that most closely match the source image at each point, and place them in the appropriate cells. This process involves the visual judgment of our image experts, as well as proprietary software algorithms to achieve a perfect blend of science and art.
Once this is done, each cell is individually tinted and blended to futher enhance the effect of the photofractal, resulting in each individual cell image being clearly visible when viewed up close, but the source image being prominently shown when viewed from a distance.
We then perform some final touch ups to the image ensuring that everything is perfect before we print out the photofractal using our state of the art, high definition printers. To best show off the photofractals for years to come, the premium synthetic papers that we use are much thicker, heavier and of higher quality than ordinary papers, which is evident from the first touch.
A layer of protective laminate is then added to each photofractal to finalise the effect and protect the photofractal, with a choice of matte (which give the photofractals a classy, oil painting type feel) or glossy (which allows the vibrant colours to show through like a photograph) finishes.
Finally, if desired, we frame the photofractals in whatever frame you choose and package the photofractal ready to be sent off or collected by the customer.
Here’s what a finished photofractal looks like, shown in a simple black frame.
And here’s one in a slightly larger frame, which looks very impressive hanging on a wall.
