Picking the best print for your home
Custom Prints
Custom prints are what most consider a regular photographic print. These prints are typically made for framing with a matte board around the image. Custom prints come in a variety of finishes, however luster or matte finishes are the most popular for portraiture. Prints range in size from 2.5x3.5 inch wallet size prints to 24x36 inch wall portraits.
Mounted Prints
Mounted prints are regular custom prints that are already mounted onto a backing board. Why mount a print? Mounting the print provides a stable semi-rigid backing to the print to protect the image from dings, bends, and fading (to an extent). Since mounted prints are already rigid and much thicker than a standard print, they can be placed into a frame without any additional backing material. Mounted prints range in size from 8x10 to 24x36.
Mounted Canvas Prints
Mounted canvas prints are just like a mounted custom print, however the image is printed directly onto a linen canvas. The canvas provides a distinct texture and sheen to the print that is hard to replicate with any other type of print. Canvas prints tend to be very durable and are made to be framed without glass or a matting board. Mounted canvas prints range in size from 11x14 to 24x36.
Canvas on Stretcher Frame
Canvas prints on a stretcher frame are made to be hung without a frame. Canvas on stretcher prints are printed onto a linen canvas and the canvas is then mounted/ stretched taught onto a wooden frame. Typically, the wooden frame is 1-2 inches thick, so the print actually provides a little bit of depth from the wall (much like a traditional framed print). Canvas on stretcher prints range in size from 16x20 to 24x36.
Metal Prints
Metal prints are somewhat like canvas on stretcher prints in that they are not made to be framed. Instead, they rely on a floating hinge built onto the back of the print that hangs about two inches off from the wall. Because of this type of mount, the print appears to float from the wall. Metal prints are printed into a special aluminum panel and are extremely durable. Metal prints range in size from 16x20 to 24x36.