Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ALL-PROES system?

ALL-PROES is Allied Photographic's ROES based ordering system. If you are currently using any other lab's ROES based system, you can easily transition to Allied's ALL-PROES system. Easy cropping of images, proof books, gallery wraps, press printed materials, wedding albums and templates are all available in this system. Click here to download the ALL-PROES system.

Is shipping FREE?

Shipping is FREE when you place a minimum order.

Why Allied vs. the huge mega-labs?

Unlike your large Mega-labs, Allied Photographic maintains a personal approach to service. We adhere to the idea that businesses are people and should be treated as such, rather than just a number. That is why when you choose to deal with Allied Photographic and Imaging Lab not only are you getting elite products and services, but you are getting them along with a personal connection to people who will identify and know you and your business.

Hence the motto: Big enough to handle your needs, small enough to care.

Does Allied work with companies outside of Michigan?

Yes. Most of our customers are around the U.S. With our internet ordering systems, fast service, and shipping, location is not an issue. We also ship internationally.

I shoot a bit too tight. Will I ever be able to order gallery wraps?

Try our NEW "Storyboard Gallery Wraps". The templates are perfect for "tight shooters"!!! If you have any ideas for new templates, let us know. We always listen.

What are Mixed Units?

Mixed units include more than one image or file. With Mixed Units, you can individually place up to 8 images or files in the 8-up wallet unit, giving you more flexibility in how you order your prints. Mixed units are found in the Seniors, Families, Weddings & More catalog.

How does the volume pricing work?

Allied’s volume pricing is exclusive to Allied Imaging Lab.  We base our volume price on the number or prints you order at one time – not the number of files or images from which prints are ordered. The number or prints ordered from only ONE image is how most other labs base their volume pricing.    Also, our volume pricing applies to all size prints, another exclusive to Allied.  Volume price breaks start at 15 prints per order with another break at 25 prints per order.

Do you Die-cut wallets?

Yes. Die cutting must be selected. The easiest way to select die cut wallets is during the review process. Check the box that says "die cut all wallets" UNLESS some units within your order should not be cut. If that is the case, use the option area when ordering to check die cut wallets on those units that need to be cut.

What do I do if an order is damaged during shipping?

Unfortunately, shipping companies have accidents. When something like this happens, we suggest that you call us immediately so that we can work on getting you replacement prints as fast as possible. After we get the replacements going, we ask that you photograph the package and it's contents, focusing on the damage to the order and shipping box. In order for Allied to make claims and also to help the shipping companies understand where damage may have occurred, we need to graphically show them what has happened. Please email us those images to info@alliedphoto.com so we can forward them along to the proper departments of the shipping company. Please save all boxes and packaging until the whole matter has been resolved.

I have a Macintosh. What system do I use?

All of our ordering systems are Macintosh compatible. Click here to get to the download page.

How much is color correction and how is it used?

Allied's approach to color correction is simple. We charge $1.00 per image or file ordered. Some other labs build the cost of color correction into the print cost, which means you are paying for color correction multiple times on the same image. Allied's approach is to charge $1.00 per color corrected image, no matter how many prints you order from it.

What is a digital contact?

A digital contact is a print that is comprised of proof images. Contacts come in various sizes, from 5x5 to 10x15 and have multiple choices available. They also include numerous options for number of images on each page. Allied's digital contacts are completely modifiable.  Background patterns and colors, strokes around the individual images, and text are all pieces of the digital contact that are controlled by the photographer. Different cover options are also available. You will find that there are plenty of options to differentiate yourself from your competition. Click here to find out more about digital contacts.

Can I order Color Correct and Direct Output prints in the same order?

No. Direct output print orders and CC orders travel to separate departments in the lab. CC order files are opened and corrected for density and color, then test printed for accuracy. Direct output orders are automatically released for final printing. Direct output prints are not subject to color or density inspection during quality control. Please refer to General Information under test prints and test your system for direct output printing for free.

How should my files be set up for printing?

sRGB is the color space used to ensure the best quality product for photographic printing by Allied. Files for the All-Proes ordering system must be 8-bit jpegs.

Sometimes file names with odd characters or spaces can cause problems with your order. To avoid these problems, stick to A-Z (a-z), 0-9, and _ (underscore) or - (dash). Please do not send files with spaces in the name. File names with odd characters or spaces in them may not print and may have to be resubmitted or are forced to print for an additional charge.

Can I edit my images after they are loaded in All-Proes?

If you find that you need to edit your images in Photoshop or another image editing program after you have opened them in All-Proes you must follow this procedure to insure that your changes will be reflected in the images that are used by All-Proes. In All-Proes, click on the Preferences button located at the bottom of the preview window. Under Image Application enter the path to Photoshop.exe (or the executable file to your preferred editing software) or use the icon to browse to this file. Click OK once this is done to close the Preferences window and save for future use. Once you have done this you can open an image in the thumbnail area of All-Proes in your chosen editing software by right-clicking (Ctrl click for Mac) the thumbnail and selecting "Open with Image Application". Once you have made your changes and saved them return to All-Proes. Right click the thumbnail of your image and select "Refresh". Your changes will be reflected in the thumbnail and you can safely order from your file.

Why does All-Proes give an "order incomplete or corrupt" error when I try to open a saved order?

You must be in the same catalog that you created the order in to be able to load a saved order. Simply switch to the proper catalog and reload your order.

Do you work with Film?

Film is still a great medium for photographers. Allied processes and prints film in formats from 35mm to 8x10 sheet film. We handle E-6, C-41, and BW films. We scan film, print, and burn the scans to a CD. Scans may also be uploaded to our ftp site for faster service. For more information on film processing and printing click here.

How many templates do you have and what genres are they for?

We literally have thousands of templates for weddings, seniors, sports, babies, and many more in both our photo and press printed ordering software. Most are completely editable and can be used for numerous applications. A template that you may have used for a wedding album may make a great locker composite print for a senior. Greeting cards, announcements, and invitations are also available. Click here to see the templates page.

Does Allied exhibit at tradeshows and how can I get Allied to be a part
of my group?

Allied has staff that attends tradeshows on a regular basis. We try to get to as many as we can. We also have judges and speakers that we sponsor to present at state conventions, regionals and photo schools. If you would like to see us at your event, please contact us and let us know about it. If you are looking for a professional speaker, contact us and we can let you know who we have available. Also stop by the booth if you see us at the show. We love to talk to our customers and enjoy their company.

How do I contact Allied Photographic or start an account?

Click here for our contact page. To start an account, simply submit an order using ALL-PROES. Once that order hits our systems, it will be flagged as a new account and a representative will be calling you to give you a new account number along with introducing themselves and finding out if you have any questions.

Is Allied a new lab?

Allied Photographic Lab is a family owned business. Allied has been a major Midwest lab, but in the late 1990's started to expand nationwide. We may seem like a new lab when you see us for the first time, but Allied Photographic Lab has been in the industry since 1950. Partner with us and our expertise.