Print FAQ — Fine Art Prints Buying Guide by Mike Dooley

Multiple fine art photo prints emerging from the Epson SureColor P800 printer, freshly printed and ready to be handled — A batch of fine art prints coming straight off the Epson SureColor P800 printer, showing the quality and detail of each image

It’s easy to look around your space and know it needs something more — a fine art print that dresses it up, makes it yours. It’s even easier to scroll through my galleries of seascape prints and landscape prints and find a photograph that feels perfect for your walls. The image gels with your vibe, you connect with it, and if you close your eyes you can almost see your space completely transformed.

And then… you hit the gallery, and questions pop up. One after another. You pause. You hesitate. Totally normal — you’re not alone.

Take a deep breath — I’m here to guide you on this journey. Over the years I’ve been asked just about every question you can imagine about buying fine art prints, from sizes and materials to shipping and display. I’ve gathered the most common ones here, with answers to help you feel confident about your choice.

Still don’t see your question? Or maybe you’re just unsure? That’s okay too. Shoot me an email, or give me a call. If I don’t have the answer on hand, I’ll dig in and find it for you.

Print & Product Quality / Materials

Q1: What kind of paper / substrate do you use (fine art paper, metal, canvas, acrylic, etc.)?

All of my fine art prints are printed using the highest quality materials available. They are archival, museum-quality, and designed to bring out every detail and color nuance. For matte paper the prints are made on Hahnemuhle Photo Rag paper. For a semi gloss the prints are made on Canson Platine. For those wanting a modern look, I also offer metal prints, which give your artwork incredible depth and vibrancy.

Q2: Do you offer coatings or finishes (matte, glossy, UV protection)?

AccoAbsolutely. Paper prints are available in a smooth matte finish that’s glare-resistant, or a subtle satin for added depth. Metal prints come glossy by nature, with a luminous, almost 3D effect.rdion Sample Description

Q3: Are the inks archival? Will the colors fade over time?

Yes — all prints use professional-grade archival inks. Colors are designed to stay true and vibrant for decades under normal display conditions. These aren’t just prints; they’re long-term investments in beauty.

Q4: Are your prints limited editions, signed, or numbered?

Most of my prints are open edition, but select works are part of a limited edition series, signed and numbered. Each piece is crafted with care, and owning one is like having a slice of the moment frozen in time.

Q5: How is the print packaged to prevent damage during shipping?

Every print is hand-inspected and professionally packaged. Paper prints are rolled or flat-shipped in protective tubes, metal prints are crated to prevent any movement — from printer to wall, farm to table for your soul.

Pricing & Payment

Q1: How much do your prints cost, and what factors affect the price?

Prices vary based on size, material, and whether it’s a limited edition. Think of it this way: you’re not just buying a print, you’re investing in a lasting piece of art that transforms a space.

Q2: What is included in the price — is framing, matting, or mounting included, or extra?

The price includes the print itself, professionally produced. Framing, matting, or special mounting are optional add-ons, so you can customize how your art lives in your space.

Size & Sizing Decisions

Q1: What are the available sizes? Can I get a custom size?

I offer a range of standard sizes for both paper and metal prints, but custom sizing is always an option. If you see a piece you love, we can make it fit your space perfectly.

Q2: How do I decide what size best fits my wall / room?

Think about the wall you want to fill and the impact you want. Small prints make a subtle statement, large prints become a room’s focal point. I can guide you with visual mockups so you see it in your space before committing.Accordion Sample Description

Q3: How will size affect resolution & clarity? (How crisp will it look large?)

Yes. Every image is captured and edited at the highest resolution, ensuring clarity even at large dimensions. If a certain size might compromise quality, I’ll let you know — transparency is part of the process.

Color, Proofs & Accuracy

Q1: Will the print look like what I see on my screen? What about color calibration / proofing?

I calibrate all monitors and printers, but screen variations exist. My prints are carefully color-managed to match your viewing experience as closely as possible.

Q2: Can I see a test/proof or small sample before the final print?

Yes. For larger or custom prints, I can provide a small sample or proof to ensure the colors and details meet your expectations.

Shipping & Handling

Q1: How long will printing & delivery take?

Most prints ship within 5–10 business days. Custom or large-format prints may take a bit longer. I always communicate timelines so you know exactly when to expect your piece.

Q2: What are the shipping costs, especially for large prints?

Accordion Sample Description

Q3: How is the print shipped (rolled, flat, in a tube, crated, etc.)?

Paper prints are rolled or shipped flat in tubes, metal prints are crated. For very large orders, I can arrange white-glove delivery and installation in select areas.

Q4: What happens if the print arrives damaged — do you replace it?

Every print is inspected and packaged carefully, but accidents happen. If your print arrives damaged, I’ll replace it immediately — no hassle, no stress.

Care, Display & Maintenance

Q1: How do I hang the print properly? Does it need special hardware?

Paper prints do best under glass or in a mat/frame combo, away from direct sunlight. Metal prints are ready to hang as-is. I can provide guidance for mounting so your art looks amazing and stays safe.

Q2: What lighting conditions are safe (avoid direct sun, humidity, etc.)?

Keep prints out of direct sunlight and high humidity areas. Normal indoor lighting and standard room conditions are perfect.

Q3: How do I clean or care for the print / frame / finish?

Paper prints: gently dust with a soft cloth. Metal prints: wipe lightly with a microfiber cloth. Avoid sprays or cleaners — your art doesn’t need them.

Q4: What is the expected lifespan of these prints under normal use?

With proper care, prints can remain vibrant for decades. These are not disposable images; they’re pieces meant to be enjoyed, remembered, and passed along.

Any good resources to learn more about display and care of photography prints?

Check out the Smithsonian Museum Conservation FAQs — they have all kinds of tips for proper display and care of artwork.

Have Questions? Ask Mike

Learn More About Print Options

Every print starts with the same promise: to bring beauty, emotion, and story into your space. But the materials, inks, and processes we use make all the difference. From archival paper to museum-quality metal, each print type is carefully crafted to last a lifetime, retain vibrant colors, and capture every nuance of the original photograph.

Fine art paper prints are rich in texture and depth, using high-quality archival inks that ensure your image remains brilliant for decades. Metal prints offer a modern alternative, producing a sleek, luminous finish that makes color and detail pop like nothing else.

There’s a lot to consider — each option has its own unique look, feel, and presence in a space. That’s why I’ve created dedicated pages to guide you through each type

Explore each to understand the materials, the process, and how your print will come to life on your wall.

Fine Art Paper Prints

Matted paper print of Mike Dooley’s photography from Through My Eyes, ready for framing and display.

Learn About Paper

Fine Art Metal Prints

Close-up of a 20x30-inch metal print from Mike Dooley’s photography book Through My Eyes, highlighting vibrant colors and detail.

Learn About Metal

Your Next Step

Every fine art print I offer is museum-quality, produced with archival materials, and crafted to last a lifetime. From the first click of the camera to the final print in your hands, my goal is simple: to deliver artwork that brings beauty, peace, and story into your space.

Now that you’ve got the answers, it’s time to find the perfect piece for your walls. Explore the galleries below and discover fine art prints that will transform your space.

Landscape Gallery