Getting a great print of your favorite photos is as simple as hopping online and picking the first printer you see, right?
Wrong...
One of the most common mistakes that amateur photographers make is assume that all printing companies are alike.
I'm here to tell you that's not the case.
If you're itching to print a few of your best photos, be sure to consider the following photo printing tips before you press the purchase button.
What Materials are Best?
Though paper is common for snapshots, if you want to create a print that offers long-lasting beauty and impact on your wall, there's nothing better than canvas.
I've tried other substrates before (like metal), but for me, the character of a canvas print with its subtle texture takes my photos to the next level in a way that no other type of print can.
Not all canvases are made alike, though - be sure to look for a printer that uses archival-quality canvas as it offers long-lasting performance.
Additionally, be sure to do your due diligence when it comes to the frame behind the canvas.
I've ordered tons of canvases over the years, and have found that hand-crafted frames that use kiln-dried wood stand up to the test of time the best.
What's more, some printers train their craftspeople to spot imperfections in the wood that might cause it to warp, bend or fail. That's just what you want - an artisan with a keen eye for quality!
Learn More:
What to Look for in Inks
Whether you go with canvas or not, you want to be sure that the printing company you choose offers the finest-quality inks.
In particular, commercial-grade inks that are designed for outdoor use offer moisture-resistance, stand up to fading, and are durable for generations. What's more, commercial-grade inks are not water based, so you don't have to worry about colors bleeding should water get on the canvas.
Additionally, choose a printer that uses six colors of ink. With the added colors, the color accuracy of your prints will be improved measurably.
Choose a Printing Company That Backs Their Work
If something goes wrong and the print you get just isn't up to snuff, you want to have peace of mind that you can get a new print or get your money back.
While some companies say "too bad," others, like CanvasHQ, say "How can we fix this?"
Not only do they offer a lifetime guarantee against fading, cracking, or bubbling, but they also offer a 100-percent satisfaction guarantee.
That means that if your print isn't as you'd hoped, you can return it within 30 days for a full refund. Alternatively, CanvasHQ can remake it and send you a replacement.
On top of that, the fine folks at CanvasHQ treat you as though you're a dear old friend.
Their commitment to customer service really is remarkable - I should know, I've been a customer of theirs for years!
Truly, if you ever have a problem or a question, a real, live human being will return your email or answer your call and do so quickly and with the utmost care.
Learn More:
- Fine-Tune Your Portrait Photography With These Essential Tips
- Change How Your Images Look in One Easy Step
Photo Printing Tips: Wrapping It Up
When you have a precious memory that you want to immortalize in a print, don't skimp and get the cheapest thing you can find.
Instead, spending a little more on a high-quality print that will last for years and years to come is a much smarter investment. Trust me - I've bought a lot of bad prints over the years, and it simply isn't worth wasting your time and energy on cheapo prints.
Besides, by the time you keep replacing those cheap prints, you'll end up spending more money than if you'd just invested in a good print in the first place!
Just look for the type of materials the company uses, the inks they use, and give their customer service a good, long look.
If you pay attention to those details, you should be able to get a print that does your photo justice!