I've been working with this for a couple of weeks now. That is, trying to get optimal monitor calibration with my Spyder3 Express for printing at Mpix (http://www.mpix.com/). Let me say I believe the Spyder3 is a very good product and the software it comes with is fast and easy. Mpix does a great job printing and their customer service is superb in my experiences with them. If you have a problem contact them and they will work with you. I don't have a high end monitor but a good one for a TN TFT ( Viewsonic VX2640w). I paid around $400 for it. I think price is proportionate to quality when it comes to monitors so I'm taking all of this into consideration here. Another point I'd like to make is there are many variables regarding the calibration of your monitor for printing on a specific printer that can affect your results.
Basic Calibration to Print Variables:
1. calibration device/software
2. monitor
3. monitor viewing environment
4. how you proof your prints
5. printer
6. print paper
7. print viewing environment
7. your eye perception
8. ICC profile integrity
Setting up your Spyder3 Express:
It's actually quite simple. Pretty much load your software, plug in your device and follow the on screen instructions. You place the device against the screen and a series of colors and B/W tones are displayed. The calibrator reads the colors and creates a profile which is automatically loaded into your system on start up.
Results of Calibration: You'll most likely see an immediate change in your color hues and shades for the better.
I will continue this post as time permits.....
