Business Details
Expert Photoshop Training & High-Quality Photo Printing Services
Watts Color Laboratory has been serving the digital post-processing needs of photographers since the early 1980s. Specializing in LightJet prints, Photoshop instruction, and color management solutions, the company combines traditional custom printing techniques with cutting-edge digital technologies. Founder John Watts brings over 35 years of experience as a photo printing professional, offering personalized one-on-one instruction, small group workshops, and online resources including a best-selling Photoshop book and free educational videos.The business emphasizes practical workflow solutions from camera to print, with services tailored to both novice and professional photographers seeking technical mastery and artistic refinement. Client testimonials highlight exceptional print quality, accessible teaching methods, and the effectiveness of the company's print concierge and Photoshop coaching services.
Services
LightJet Photographic Prints
Photoshop Instruction
Color Management Services
Master File Creation
Custom Printer Profiles
Highlights and features
- 35+ years of experience in professional photo printing and digital workflow
- Personalized instruction tailored to photographers' specific needs
- Specializes in core Photoshop tools for practical print results
- Proven track record with published educational materials and client testimonials
- Flexible training options available onsite or nationwide via remote instruction
What people say
Spectacular quality
Best Photoshop book
Professional techniques
Patient instruction
Excellent results
Services
LightJet Photographic Prints
Professional-grade LightJet prints utilizing advanced digital exposure technology for precise color reproduction and archival quality. Our process combines traditional darkroom techniques with modern digital calibration to ensure exceptional detail and tonal range. Clients receive museum-quality prints optimized for gallery display or personal collections.
Photoshop Instruction
Customized Photoshop training focusing on practical workflow solutions for photographers. Courses cover master file creation, color correction, and print optimization using core tools rather than complex special effects. Available through one-on-one sessions, small workshops, and comprehensive educational materials.
Color Management Services
End-to-end color management solutions including monitor profiling, printer calibration, and workflow standardization. Services ensure consistent color accuracy across digital capture, screen display, and final print output. Specialized tools and techniques address both personal and commercial production needs.
Master File Creation
Professional file management system development for photographers to maintain original image integrity while enabling efficient editing workflows. Training includes non-destructive editing techniques, layer management, and organizational strategies for long-term digital asset preservation.
Custom Printer Profiles
Tailored printer profiles for specific paper and ink combinations to achieve optimal print consistency. Services include profile creation for both personal printers and commercial lab outputs, ensuring accurate color matching across different printing environments.
People
John Watts
Founder
Photo printing professional with 35+ years of experience, author of 'Not Just Another Photoshop Book', and educator specializing in practical Photoshop workflows for photographers. Developed training programs used nationwide.
Questions
What Photoshop services do you offer?
We provide one-on-one instruction, small group workshops, online classes, and educational resources including a best-selling Photoshop book and free video tutorials.
How long has your company been in business?
Our founder has 35+ years of experience in photo printing and digital workflow, with the current educational offerings developed over the past decade.
Do you offer remote instruction options?
Yes, we provide virtual classes and remote file review sessions available nationwide through online platforms.
What areas do you serve?
While based in San Diego, we offer onsite instruction nationwide and virtual services accessible from any location.
Is your Photoshop book suitable for beginners?
Yes, our book focuses specifically on photographer workflows using core tools, making it ideal for both new and experienced Photoshop users.
Do you guarantee print quality?
We ensure color accuracy through calibrated workflows, but final results depend on client file preparation and printer capabilities.
