Frequently Asked Questions

• Is the DS820 the replacement for the DS80? +

  Yes, the DS820 is the modern successor to the DS80, offering the same 8-inch width capability with enhanced performance, improved reliability, and continued media availability. With DS80 media being discontinued by DNP, the DS820 provides DS80 owners with a clear upgrade path that maintains the 8-inch format whilst delivering improved print speeds, better heat management, and access to Pure Premium Digital media. Contact us on 0208 527 6006 to discuss trade-in options for your DS80 printer.

• What makes the DS820 different from the DS620? +

  The DS820 offers an 8-inch print width compared to the DS620's 6-inch width, enabling production of standard 8×10" and 8×12" portraits, full A4 prints, and panoramic shots up to 8×32" (vs 6×20" on the DS620). This makes the DS820 the preferred choice for portrait studios, wedding photographers, and professional labs who regularly need these larger formats, whilst the DS620 remains ideal for event photography and photo booth operations where 6-inch formats are standard.

• What is Pure Premium Digital media? +

  Pure Premium Digital is DNP's gallery-grade professional media formulation featuring substantially deeper black tones, increased optical density, and superior colour fidelity compared to standard media. This premium media is engineered specifically for professional studios who demand museum-quality results with enhanced durability and exceptional colour accuracy. The advanced dye reception and premium laminate protection ensure portraits maintain their visual impact for decades, making it ideal for archival-quality heirloom photographs.

• Can I print panoramic sizes without special media? +

  Yes, panoramic prints (8×18" to 8×32") use the same standard 8-inch wide media as regular prints. The DS820 handles these extended lengths through advanced media feeding, producing stunning wide-format prints without requiring separate panoramic media or equipment. This capability is particularly valuable for wedding group photos, sports team shots, and dramatic landscape prints where wider formats better capture the composition.

• Is the DS820 suitable for high-volume studio work? +

  Yes, the DS820 is engineered for professional studio environments with improved heat dissipation enabling consistent high-volume operation. The latest-generation print engine extends thermal print head life whilst maintaining exceptional quality throughout intensive shooting sessions. The 29-second print time for 8×10" portraits provides efficient throughput for portrait studios managing multiple daily sessions, whilst the enhanced cooling system prevents thermal throttling during extended print runs.

• What finish options can I offer clients? +

  The DS820 produces four premium finishes from a single media roll: Glossy (traditional high-shine), Lustre (sophisticated semi-gloss), Fine Matte (elegant low-sheen), and Matte (modern non-reflective). Simply select the desired finish through your printer driver or Hot Folder Print software—no media changes required. This flexibility enables studios to accommodate diverse client preferences without maintaining separate media inventory or interrupting workflow during client sessions.

• Does the printer include media, or is it sold separately? +

  The DS820 printer is sold without media—paper and ribbon are purchased separately as consumables. DS820 media is available in different configurations depending on print size requirements, with each complete kit containing the paper roll and ribbon together. This consumable-based model allows studios to stock only the formats they need (standard 8×12" or A4 width) and take advantage of bulk pricing for high-volume operations.

• What's the advantage of A4 capability? +

  A4 capability enables studios to print full-size certificates, portfolios, and professional documentation alongside standard portrait work. The ability to produce A4 prints (21×29.7cm) and additional A4-width formats (21×13cm, 21×14.8cm, 21×20cm, 21×25cm) provides exceptional versatility for studios serving diverse client requirements, from traditional portraits to commercial documentation, without requiring separate printing equipment.

• Is metallic media compatible with the DS820? +

  Yes, the DS820 is compatible with DNP's luxury metallic media in 8×12" (20×30cm) format. Metallic media features a distinctive pearlescent sheen with enhanced colour depth and luminosity, creating stunning eye-catching portraits that elevate ordinary photographs into premium keepsakes. This specialty media requires purchasing the specific metallic media packs but offers studios a high-margin premium product option that differentiates their service from competitors.