How to Buy a Fine Art Print

Storm over Old Orchard Pier, dramatic New England seascape, fine art photography by Mike Dooley

Buying a fine art print should feel easy, exciting, and reassuring—not overwhelming. Whether you’re bringing a traditional, breathtaking paper print or a bold & vibrant metal print, every artwork you choose makes a strong, personal statement in your space. This guide walks you through the entire process—from the moment an image catches your eye to the day it finds its place on your wall.

This guide is part of my From Printer to Wall series—designed to make buying fine art prints simple, approachable, and stress-free, from selecting artwork to placing your order.

Point Judith Lighthouse at dawn, fine art seascape photograph by Mike Dooley

Step 1: Choose the Artwork That Resonates

Start by browsing the galleries of fine art prints and paying attention to what makes you pause.

Great art choices begin with personal connection, not rules or trends. A great article about Choosing Artwork for Your Home, by the Magnolia Group (think Chip and Joanna from HGTV)

  • Look for an image that sparks a feeling—calm, curiosity, nostalgia, wonder
  • Picture it in your space: the light, the colors, the mood
  • Don’t overthink it—connection comes first

Tip: Start with the feeling, not the size. We’ll figure out the logistics next.

Step 2: What Size Print Fits Your Space?

The right size brings balance to a room and lets the artwork breathe.

  • Medium prints (18×24″ to 24×36″)
    Ideal for living rooms, offices, bedrooms, and most wall spaces
  • Large prints (30×45″ and up)
    Statement pieces for dining rooms, lobbies, and walls that want presence

Pro Tip: Measure your wall first. Leave room for furniture, framing, and a little breathing space around the print. A few pieces of blue painters tape works wonders here.

Pier extending into Naragansett Bay at sunrise, with golden light reflecting on the water
Sunlit rocky coastline, fine art landscape photograph by Mike Dooley

Step 3: Choose Your Print Material

Each material has its own personality. There’s no wrong choice—just what fits your space and style.

Paper Prints

  • Archival, museum-quality papers
  • Semi-gloss or matte finishes
  • Ideal for framing or matted displays
  • Timeless, subtle, and classic

Metal Prints

  • Infused into aluminum for vibrant, luminous color
  • Sleek, modern look—ready to hang
  • Durable, fade-resistant, and easy to clean

Advice? Don’t go crazy over this – don’t think better, think different. One will be your style and you will fell it. It just feels “right”

Step 4: Hanging & Placement Tips

A few simple guidelines make a big difference once your print arrives.

  • Use indirect natural light or soft gallery-style lighting
  • Hang at eye level (about 57–60 inches from the floor to the center)
  • Leave 4–6 inches between the print and any furniture
  • A little blue painters tape to show you exactly how your print will fit your wall? Priceless!
  • For gallery walls, lay pieces out on the floor first to plan spacing

Pro Tip: How do the pros do it? The good folks over at HGTV think that your question is important enough to dedicate a whole web page to just that: How to Hang a Print

Step 5: Ordering Made Simple

Once you’ve made your choices, the rest is easy.

  • Add your selected print to the cart from the gallery page
  • Choose size and finish
  • Enter shipping details and checkout securely

I take it from there—printing, quality checks, and careful delivery to your door.

Secure Checkout!
Your payment is processed safely and securely off-site, so I never see your credit card numbers—only which print you’ve chosen. And might I say… you have excellent taste! 😉

Storm over Old Orchard Pier, dramatic New England seascape, fine art photography by Mike Dooley

Step 6: Enjoy Your Print

Unpack carefully, take a moment, and hang your print.

  • Try a few positions before committing—especially with metal prints, which interact beautifully with light
  • Let the image settle into the room

Every print is meant to bring calm, reflection, and connection into your space.

Local in Southern New England?
I can arrange to pick up and hand-deliver your print straight to your door. Need help hanging it? I can swing a wrench like nobody’s business. Prefer to leave it to the pros? Nothing wrong with that—after all, this is Rhode Island, and I know a guy. Or twelve…

Quick FAQs

Can I mix sizes or materials on the same wall?
Absolutely. Mixing sizes or combining paper and metal adds depth and visual interest.

Do metal prints need framing?
Nope. Metal prints arrive ready to hang with integrated mounting hardware.

What if my wall is an unusual shape or size?
Measure carefully and reach out—I’m happy to help you find the right solution or explore custom sizes.

How long does it take to receive a print?
Most prints ship within 3–5 business days, depending on size and finish.

Salter Grove winter sunrise landscape photograph, fine art photography by Mike Dooley
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