FAQ
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
About Your Account
How do I become a JD Lab customer?
It's easy. Call 888-858-8084 during business hours and we will interview you over the phone. You must have a Visa or MasterCard to open a new account.
If you need to send us a digital image order immediately, click here to use our JDLab2You order entry software. Enter your Visa or MasterCard, upload the order, and it will be queued to print when the lab opens for business. We will call later to confirm your account information and complete the application process.
What payment options do you offer?
All new customers start with a “pay on receipt” account. You can choose to pay on receipt of our products or services in four ways:
- We will bill the Visa or MasterCard you entered into JDLab2You when you placed the order.
- We will bill your Visa or MasterCard that we have on file for the full amount when the order ships.
- Walk-in customers may pay by Visa, MasterCard, check, or cash.
- We can ship your order C.O.D. for an additional $9.50 per order.
Do you offer Open Accounts?
Studios who spend more than $25,000 annually may apply for an open account. On open accounts, a single statement is sent on the first day of each month, with payment due by the 10th of that month. Any balance not paid by the 10th is subject to a 1.5% per month charge. To apply for an open account, contact Heidi at (810) 239-8671.
Do you have a minimum order size?
JD Lab requires at least a $12 minimum order. Our JDLab2You software shows the minimum order price in the software to remind you. Orders under $12 will be charged $12. Studios are encouraged to bundle orders to avoid the minimum order charge.
I think I already have an account. Where can I look it up?
Click here to look up your account number. You'll need either your 4-5 digit studio ID number or the email address you used to create an account AND the last 4 digits of your phone number. If you still can't find it,contact us and we can help.
Shipping and Handling
How much do you charge for shipping?
JD Lab ships according to the table below. $12 minimum order required. Orders under $12 will be charged $12.
Prices Subject to Change
Unless otherwise requested, finished orders will be shipped via UPS Ground. UPS will normally deliver to a studio with a commercial address in MI, IN, or OH within one business day. However, depending on the distance from the lab, holidays, weather, and commercial rural or residential addresses, deliveries may take longer. See the UPS map for details.
Customers who regularly submit orders under $50 are encouraged to use our JDLab2You software, which makes it easy to bundle smaller orders into a single large order.
Do you offer Drop Shipping?
We can drop ship orders to your customers via US Priority Mail for $9.95 or UPS Ground for $14.95. Drop ship information can easily be entered into any of our automated digital ordering programs. Prints and products (albums, etc.) will be shipped to the drop ship address. All lab paperwork and invoices will be shipped to you.
Do you offer Express Shipping?
If you need express shipping, you should note it on the order when it is sent to the lab. You will be billed our cost for UPS Next Day service in addition to any rush service fees (see below).
Do you ship to Canada?
Your order will be shipped under UPS’s e-Tailer Brokerage Program (eBP), where eligible shipments imported into Canada for non-commercial addresses and valued under $200 CAD shipped via UPS Standard service are subject to a reduced brokerage fee of $10 CAD, plus any applicable duties and taxes. Orders must be shipped to a residential address. Shipments valued at $200 CAD and above and/or being imported to Canada to a commercial address and/or subject to specialized clearance may incur additional fees.
For most of our Canadian Clent's orders, shipping costs between $19 and $25 plus the $10 brokerage fee.
Rush Services
What if I need my order rushed?
RUSH orders must include a specific delivery time on the invoice or in the notes field of the electronic order. Orders simply marked RUSH without a specific delivery date or percentage rush charge will receive normal delivery times.
Less than 1/2 normal time: 100%
Same day service: 200%
Minimum RUSH order charge: $20.00
Is Rush Service always available?
Occasionally rush service may not be available due to seasonal volumes. If you need your order rushed, please call 888-858-8084 to confirm that the service is available and we will try to accommodate you.
Order Tracking
How do I check on the status of an order?
The easiest way to check the status of an order is to log on to our website at my.jdlab.com. Your lab-assigned customer ID and email (password) enables you to view the status of current orders as well as review previous orders 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
If you do not know your customer ID and password, you can call Customer Service at 888-858-8084 between 8:30am and 4:00pm Monday through Friday. If you need to check on an order, please have your invoice number ready before calling.
Returns
What is your policy on remakes and returns?
If you need a remake, contact customer service immediately with the order number and image numbers ready. If your order was incomplete or was damaged during shipment, we will reprint and ship immediately. For color or quality issues, we need you to return the unwanted prints first so that we can QC them against the remakes. To make returning prints free and easy, we will send you a pre-paid return shipping (RS) label the same day you call. (If you request it) No returns will be accepted after 30 days.
Will you replace Print As-Is?
Sorry, but to keep prices low we cannot give credit for Print As-Is with color or density problems. However, we do offer up to five free 8x10 test prints for you to verify your studio’s color management before you resubmit the order.
Digital Imaging Requirements
JD Lab uses a 100% digital workflow. Our goal is to help you create a simple workflow that moves quickly through your studio and our lab. You only need to shoot images and send them to us. Let us do the rest.
What are your file size requirements?
You should always set your digital camera to capture the highest quality image possible. The resulting file should produce a beautiful print in any size from minis up to 30x40” depending on your camera’s mega pixel rating. In our experience a 6 mega pixel professional SLR is a good compromise between image size and quality. For very large group shots, you should consider investing in a 10-12 mega pixel SLR.
Do NOT resize, crop or rotate your images before ordering. The order entry software will do it for you. This ensures that the highest quality image will be sent to us for printing.
What file formats do you accept?
“Level 10” or “best quality” JPEG files using sRGB color space are preferred, either directly copied from your camera's memory card, or after you've edited the image in a program like Photoshop. JPEGs are high quality files in a compressed format that makes them small enough to transfer quickly over the Internet.
We can accept any image file format. However, you should call before sending anything other than JPEG format so we can discuss your needs and requirements.
Large proof orders or products ordered via our JDLab2You or our School/Sports/Events ordering programs must use JPEG files. If you prefer to shoot RAW image files, batch conversion tools are available to make JPEG copies for ordering.
Color Profiles
By default, most professional digital cameras save images using the sRGB ICC color profile. You should confirm that your camera embeds the sRGB profile in each digital image. If no profile is embedded, our system will assume you are using sRGB. For photographers who are familiar with ICC color profiles, we will also accept embedded Adobe 1998 ICC profiles.
Calibrating Your Monitor
Because every image is color corrected at our lab, you don't need to worry about your monitor matching the professional quality of our finished prints. However, if you show images to customers you'll want them to reasonably match the prints in both color and density. To order your free calibration print call us at 888.858.8084.
Start by making sure you are viewing both the image and the print in a neutrally lit room. You can approximate neutral lighting by using both indirect florescent and incandescent (light bulb) fixtures in the same room. The resulting light should be bright enough to read in, but should not create any hot spots or reflections on the monitor. For a more accurate color match between your monitor and prints, you will need to put the print in a light box next to the monitor.
For those photographers who want to take monitor calibration to the next level, we recommend you purchase either the Gretag-Macbeth Eye-One or X-Rite Optix. The primary advantage of these tools is that they will enable you to verify that you are using the proper exposure settings on your digital camera. If your images are too dark or too light, we will fix them at the lab. However, you may have to temporarily adjust your monitor to display the images to your customers.
To verify final print density and color, we encourage you to send us a test order for up to five 8x10" prints. Select the "Calibration Prints" product under Standard Prints.
Color Correction
As part of our full-service digital workflow, our Quality Control department inspects and color corrects each image before sending it to the printer. Therefore, for most photographers we suggest you leave images "as is" after you've taken the shot. Cropping, resizing, applying color corrections or filters may create a pleasing image on your monitor, but may result in a less than perfect print. Our order entry software gives you the ability to add text, borders, B&W, sepia or to create composites so you don't have to do it in Lightroom, Photoshop or similar programs.
For those photographers who want to take control of their own color and density, we also offer Print As-Is. This service can save you money if you are willing to take full responsibility for the density and color of each print. Read more to discover if this may be a good option for you.
To maintain the lowest possible price per print, undergrad and package printing are analyzed by camera as defined by the beginning and ending slate shots. All packages between the slates are printed at the same average color and density. Therefore, consistent exposure and lighting is always required.
Sharpening
You do not need to batch sharpen every image as part of your workflow. Our printers apply a minimal amount of sharpening automatically, which we have found provides the best possible prints.
Wedding/Senior/Portrait Printing
Do you offer different quality lines of senior / portrait packages?
No. At JD Lab, we deliver only high quality work. All our prints use the same high-quality Kodak paper, are borderless, pre-cut and include die-cut wallets.
What is the difference between Print As-Is and JD Deluxe prints?
JD Deluxe prints are individually color and density corrected, optionally retouched, and each print is hand-inspected before shipping. Print As-Is are for the studio that wants to take full control of its own color and density corrections and retouching.
Can I mix candid and portrait orders on the same invoice?
Yes, JD treats candid and portrait prints the same in the lab.
What types of logos are available?
“Studio” logos are small images permanently kept at the lab. When added to your prints, they permanently identify your studio to your customer. They are available on enlargements as well as wallets. Studio logos are free if ordered in JDLab2You or Pick-a-Pack Sports & Events software..
We must have an approved logo on file before you can order a studio logo (requires basic black & white logo design only). Contact heidi@jdlab.com for assistance creating a studio logo. For a one-time fee, our graphic artists can also create a custom studio logo for you.
“Personal” logos use text that can change with each order. Personal Logos are available in several different styles. Black or white personal logos are free if ordered in JDLab2You or Pick-a-Pack Sports & Events software. Custom color personal logos are available for an additional fee. For Personal logo style samples, please refer to the product catalog.
Hand-burnished Gold and Silver foil stamping is also available in two styles for an additional fee.
Underclass & Sports
How do I shoot underclass to get the best price?
JD Lab is fully integrated with Photolynx Flow, Imagematch and Quixi as well as Timestone for your underclass needs. Give us a call for ideas on which software will best fit your needs.
How do I shoot sports to get the best price?
We suggest you use our Pick-a-Pack Sports & Events software or Photolynx Flow to design your own packages using full and half units. Sports package prices are available for Santa specials, pet specials, dance schools, day care, etc. You should use the database features in the software to import text files to match images to packages, memory mates, trader cards, or any other products that require personal information.
Retouching
Ordering standard retouching is as easy as pushing a button.
Standard retouching, heavy retouching and many more common requests are available in JDLAB2YOU under "image options"
Standard retouching, heavy retouching and many more common requests are available in JDLAB2YOU under "image options"
What if I want special digital retouching?
We can do any complicated digital retouching you need. In JDLab2You, check RQ Retouch Quote request on the order. Prints or negatives will be scanned for retouching. Scan & retouch with no order placed will result in a CD charge. Digital Artwork is billed per hour with a 15-minute minimum. Weddings and events will be charged by the hour. Please include a proof if available.
Finishing
What type of finish is best for my prints?
We recommend having your prints coated for protection. Larger prints should be laminated for the best protection. Laminated prints can be framed without glass and may be wiped with a damp cloth to clean.
What types of laminates are available?
Prints can be laminated in Matte, Canvas or Lustre finishes. All laminates protect equally well.
What about mounting?
We recommend mounting prints 8x10 or larger. Please be sure to specify on 11x14 or larger if you would like crescent or foam board.
Press-Printed Products
Why should I order postcards and folded greeting cards from JD?
Virtually all of our press-printed products are available in JDLab2You. For example, with just a few mouse clicks you can order custom Christmas cards for your clients. When ordering small quantities of press-printed products, we have found that our prices are competitive when compared to the “big-box” stores.
Supplies
How can I order supplies?
Use our online Studio Supplies order form to order supplies, or call 888-858-8084 and we will fax a supply order form to you.
What is JDLab2You?
- Online Ordering
- Rapid Service
- Easiest to Use
JDLab2You is the next generation of ROES software. Like ROES, It is a full featured web ordering system for your digital images, Mac & PC compatible, is FREE to download and use, and installs in seconds. However, it is the easiest to learn. You can place your first order in less than 5 minutes.
Why use JDLab2You?
You Control Image Crop and Rotation
JDLab2You has intuitive, mouse-driven cropping and rotation features. You'll always get the exact picture you want.
Internet upload or CD Delivery
You can send individual orders or upload them in batches over the Internet while you sleep. No high-speed connection? Save your order as a single file containing your images and order info, burn it on a CD, and send it to the lab.
Convenient
With JDLab2You you can save orders in progress for later completion. You can resume your Internet upload if you are disconnected for any reason. JDLab2You has Reorder capability, so images need only be uploaded once.
Always Current
Every time you start JDLab2You, you are automatically updated with the latest version of the software and JD Lab's latest catalog of products. No need to check for separate upgrades or catalog files.
Runs on Windows or Mac OS X
The JDLab2You software is designed to run on just about any computer platform. All you need to install is a current browser (Internet Explorer 5.5 or higher, or Netscape 6 or higher). The Java engine will be installed automatically on your PC if it is not already available.
Safe
Your orders are encrypted so they can only be opened in our lab.
What does JDLab2You include?
Designer Tool
Create your own custom composites. Album pages, proofbooks, greeting cards, anything! Save composite templates for future use. Easier to learn than Photoshop, and the images come to the lab separately so we can color correct as needed.
Packages & Clusters Tool
Create and use your own packages. A wonderful tool for any studio that offers sports or portrait packages (many prints from a single image). Just define your package once, and use it as a product in any future order. This will save you hours of order entry. In JDLab2You, in the "Orders" tab, click "Go to Favorites" at the bottom of the screen.
DVD Slideshow
Order a professional DVD video for your clients! This stunning presentation can include motion, transitions, and music. It plays in any DVD movie player or DVD-ROM. Learn more...
Using JDLab2You to Send Your First Order
- Select the Sign up for an account option. You must be connected to the Internet to sign up for and install JDLab2You.
- Enter your name, studio name, e-mail account, and phone number. Click the Submit button.
- In a few minutes you will receive an e-mail with an account number. Print this e-mail, as you will need to enter this information into JDLab2You. Use the same information to install JDLab2You on every computer in your studio.
- Install JDLab2You.
- Once installed, you will see a JD Lab logo. In a few moments the application will be installed.
- You may see a Security Warning window informing you that JDLab2You is requesting access to your PC. Click the "Start" button to allow JDLab2You to complete the installation.
If you checked the Tax Exempt box, you must include your Tax ID number in the Billing information or you will be charged sales tax.
What online solutions do you suggest?
JD Lab is fully integrated with ImageQuix, SimplePhoto and APE online solutions for volume photography. Contact them to see which solution best fits your needs. We also offer integration with Zenfolio through Flow.
Copyright & Liability
What is your policy on copying images from other Photographers?
All JD Lab prints are labeled with the © symbol and cannot be copied without your permission. JD Lab will not copy photographs that contain a copyright symbol or appear to be professional photographs.
What is your liability policy?
Submitting any tangible or electronic media, imaging, data, file, card, disc, device, film, print, slide or negative for any purpose, such as processing, printing, duplication, alteration, enlargement, storage, transmission, or other handling, constitutes an AGREEMENT that any loss or damage to it by our company, subsidiary or agents, even though by our negligence or other fault, will only entitle you to replacement with the equivalent quantity/size of unexposed photographic film, print, slide or electronic media. Consequential damages are excluded. No expressed or implied warranty is provided.