Wether a print is hung on your wall in your house or is part of a larger collection of art, the print is real and lasting. And more than a passing like and a swipe, the print, and your ownership of it, is as much a part of your story, as it is about why the photographer took it. The art you choose to surround yourself with says something about what stirs your soul.
Some Things to Keep in Mind about Photographic Prints:
When viewing an image on your computer screen, the image is lit from behind. A print is lit from the light in your room, in other words, in front. That impacts the visual “experience.”
Your computer screen settings likely saturate colors so there may be some tonal differences between the photograph you view online and the print version. The digital darkroom your print comes from is likely “color managed” which makes the screen and print closely similar….just a note that your screen may be different.
Whether you own a vintage “dark room” print or a “digital” print, all prints need to be cared for to ensure longevity. That means keep them out of direct light and be sure to use UV filtered glass in framing.
If you collect photography, you will want to consider how different photographers (or galleries or photographers’ estates) ensure “authenticity.” Some factors to consider include: when was it printed; who did the printing; how is it signed; was it a limited edition, open edition or a single edition.
Today, photographic prints can take many forms given technological changes and new processes. For example, prints can come on fine art photography papers, fine art papers, canvas, metallic surfaces and more. Enjoy and explore these options and keep an open mind to what makes the photographic print best for you.
And, don’t forget, make smart and beautiful choices when it comes to your matting and framing.