What Is the Difference Between Open and Limited Edition Prints?

Question 4 of 18 · Chapter 1: What am I buying?

Short answer: An open edition print can be made as many times as people order it. A limited edition print is capped, so only a set number of copies ever exist. Mine is the Signature Series, limited to 25 per image, printed and signed by me. Both kinds are archival and made to last.

The two kinds, side by side

Open EditionSignature Series (limited)
How many existNo limit25 per image, then the edition closes
Who prints itBlazing Editions, a print house in Rhode IslandMe, on my Epson P800 in my studio
MaterialsFine art paper or metal, in several sizesFine art paper; 12×18 image on 13×19 paper
Signed and numberedNot signedSigned, titled and numbered by hand, with a story sheet that serves as the Certificate of Authenticity

Open Edition prints

Open Edition prints come in several sizes and finishes, including fine art paper and metal. They are made with archival materials and built to last, but there is no limit on how many get printed. That means more sizes and materials to choose from, which is handy for homes, offices and bigger walls.

If you want a well-made print and do not care about edition numbers, Open Edition is the way to go.

Signature Series (limited edition of 25)

The Signature Series is my limited edition work. I print each one myself in my studio, using archival UltraChrome HD pigment inks. I choose the paper to suit each photograph.

  • Signed, titled and individually numbered
  • Limited to 25 per image
  • Includes a signed and numbered story sheet, the story behind the photograph, which doubles as the Certificate of Authenticity

Once an edition sells out, it is permanently closed. You can see the current images on the Limited Edition Prints page.

What is an artist’s proof (AP)?

For each image I make between one and five artist’s proofs, sometimes on a different paper or with different settings, to make sure I am getting exactly what I want. They are marked AP. I keep them, give some away as gifts, and use them for displays and presentations.

Which should you choose?

Choose Open Edition if:

  • You want flexibility in size and material
  • You are decorating a space
  • You prefer metal or larger formats

Choose Signature Series if:

  • You like knowing only 25 exist
  • You want a print I made and signed myself
  • You want the story sheet that comes with it

Both are archival. The difference is how many exist and who prints them.

Related questions

Does a limited edition print cost more?

Usually, yes. Signature Series prices reflect that there are only 25 of each and that I print every one myself. Open Edition prices depend on the size and material you pick.

What happens when an edition sells out?

It is permanently closed. Once the 25 are gone, that image is retired from the Signature Series.

Is an open edition print lower quality?

No. Both are archival. The difference is how many exist and who prints them.

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Last reviewed: October 10, 2026

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