Fine Art Print FAQ — Answers for Photography Print Buyers

Quick reference

Short answers to the questions I get most about fine art prints: what they are, paper or metal, size, framing, care, color, shipping and returns. Each one links to the full page in this guide if you want the longer version.

1. What makes these fine art prints different from cheap posters or mass‑market prints?

These aren’t posters. I make them with archival pigment inks on quality paper or aluminum, and each one is checked for color and detail before it goes out. The longer answer is What makes a photograph fine art?

Think of it this way:
✔️ Archival pigment inks
✔️ Paper and aluminum
✔️ Color and detail checked on every print

2. What print materials are available — and how do I choose?

How to choose:

• Go paper for a classic, textured look
• Go metal for bold color and contemporary spaces
• See the difference visually and decide based on where the print will live. The short version is Should I choose a paper or metal print?

3. What sizes should I choose for my space?

Sizing matters as much as the image.

A few tips:

• Measure your wall and furniture first — prints shouldn’t feel crammed.
• A good rule: artwork above furniture should stretch about ⅔ to ¾ of the width of what’s beneath it.
• Small prints (up to ~18″) work for desks and cozy nooks.
• Medium prints (~20–30″) fit living rooms and offices.
• Large prints (30″+) anchor big walls and high ceilings.

Quick reference:

• 9×12″–12×18″ → small and quiet
• 18×24″–24×36″ → balanced, classic
• 30×45″–40×60″ → big and bold

More on this in What size print should I buy?

4. Do these prints come with framing?

Most prints are sold unframed so you can choose a style that fits your space — from classic wood frames to sleek modern metal. Acid‑free mats and UV protective glazing are recommended to preserve both color and longevity.

I suggest a local framer who knows what they are doing, and museum glass, which is UV protective and anti-glare. When I needed a 100+ year old family heirloom framed, I took it to Providence Picture Frame, a great local place. More on framing is on Is a paper print right for me?

5. How long will my print last?

I am not going to put a number on it that I cannot back up. Keep prints out of harsh direct sunlight and damp, and they should look good for a long time. A fuller answer, with the print house’s own information, is coming.

6. What if the colors look different in person than on my screen?

This is one of the most common questions fine art buyers ask. Screens vary by brand, brightness, and calibration, so there will sometimes be variation between what you saw on a device and the printed result. It shouldn’t be drastic — the goal is accurate color, not exact pixel-to-pixel match. I calibrate my monitors regularly, and I print at home to spot check.

Tips for judging color:

• View prints under soft, neutral lighting
• Avoid judging color in direct sunlight or heavy yellow interior lights
• If exact color really matters, ask me about a sample print first

7. How are prints shipped and what should I expect?

Shipping details are coming back when the store reopens.

If anything arrives damaged, I’ll work with you to make it right.

8. Do you offer custom sizes or projects?

Yes! If you have a specific size in mind, or you’re planning several prints for a home, office or gallery wall, get in touch. Custom sizes often make sense for non‑standard spaces — and we can talk through what will look best.

9. What if I’m nervous about buying a big print online?

Totally understandable. It is a big decision. Here’s a tip: measure your space first, then tape up some good old blue painter’s tape to outline the print and let it live there for a bit. An hour, a day, a week, whatever it takes. You will know it when you know it.

10. How do I care for my print once it arrives?

• Paper prints: dust lightly; avoid direct sun
• Metal prints: wipe gently with a soft dry cloth
• Frames: use UV protective glass if possible

Look after them and they will keep looking good. The National Gallery of Art has a wonderful collection of articles about this very topic!

11. What’s your return policy?

I don’t have a formal returns policy right now. If your print arrives damaged, or you’re genuinely unhappy with what you got, email me and we’ll figure out the right fix together. I’d rather make it right than hide behind a policy.

12. Are these real photographs, or AI-generated?

100% real. Every image I sell is mine — shot with my own camera, out on location, no AI involved in the photo itself. I use AI plenty to help run the business side of things, but the images are all me. Here is how I use it: How I Use AI as a Photographer.

Still Have Questions?

This covers the questions I get most, but every room is different. If you want help choosing material, size or framing, or your question isn’t here, email me.