A lab I have been doing more and more business with made an error of judgement in printing 2 canvases ( both 24x36). Because I liked the look, I had created a 3 "matt around the main images so that the total size was 24x36.

They took this to mean that the photo should be enlarged and the matt I created was used to wrap around the frame. So now instead of 3" of my matt, there is about 1/2" left on the face. And where I was expecting a black edge on the sides and back, there is my matt.

About 2 weeks before submitting my images, I e-mailed them to be sure that we were both clear on what I was to submit and would expect back in return. So I followed the instructions I received back in the e-mail (which was consistent with a link on their web page) from the sales director.

The error is clearly on their end and they admit to the misunderstanding (sent photos to show them).

I would like to keep them as I seem to have a hard time finding a lab that does a good job in larger sizes. This issue even made it to their CEO. (was this that large a financial impact on them?)

I should be hearing in the beginning of the week if the images have been accepted for a museum show. There should be just enough time to get them reprinted.

They are willing to do that (of course one of the options--the other is I keep them) if I send back the originals (on their nickel).

So what happens to the canvases now should I send them back? Can I insist that they be given to a charity and they write off whatever they want? Since I consider them to be damaged goods, I don't want them to be selling the canvases.... I feel I have some rights over their disposal because they are my images and have my copyright / signature on them (digital).

I'm sure you folks have some opinions...

I can't speak for the firm involved, bur from my experience, labs generally dispose of mistakes such as these. They are referred to upon receipt to show the employees as a measure of what not to do in the future then disposed. I wouldn't worry too much that they would be handled improperly.

They need the original back for two reasons. One - to prevent people from scamming free products. Two - to use as a teaching tool, as butchM said.

That being said, you can certainly confirm with them that the canvases are to be destroyed upon receipt. Reputable companies do not sell, retain, or donate 'damaged' products.

Dan B.

Thanks for your insights into the business Butch and dan. It sounds like a confirmation is in order. If one didn't know what it was supposed to look like, the missing borders may not be noticed.