In our social media obsessed world, physical prints offer a way to display timeless memories. We are no longer limited to just the traditional prints on photo glossy paper. Today, a variety of paper finishes, printing substrates, and mounting options are available. Here are some professional printing trends to look out for in 2024 to diversify your print photography offerings.
All are currently available at Printique.
1. Different Paper Finishings
In addition to more traditional finishes, such as matte, glossy, and metallic, there are several unique surfaces being offered for your printing needs. Paper finishes play a crucial role in the appearance and texture of printed materials, affecting the way colors and text appear and feel. Here are examples of a few finishings to consider:
Luster finish, also sometimes known as satin or semi-gloss, strikes a balance between matte and glossy finishes. It offers a subtle sheen that enhances the vibrancy of colors and images while reducing glare and fingerprints. Luster is commonly used in photography prints, brochures, and promotional materials.
Linen finish, on the other hand, mimics the texture of fine linen fabric. It adds a tactile quality to paper, creating a subtle, elegant look. This finish is often chosen for high-end stationery, business cards, and invitations, as it exudes sophistication and professionalism.
Pebble finish, also sometimes referred to as embossed or stippled finish, features a textured surface that resembles small, raised pebble-like patterns. It adds a unique dimension to the paper, creating a distinctive and tactile experience. This finish is often employed for artistic and creative applications, such as wedding invitations, greeting cards, and art prints.
Each of these paper finishes serves a specific purpose and can greatly influence the perception and appeal of printed materials. Choosing the right finish depends on the intended use, design, and the desired visual and tactile effects.
2. Product Personalization
More customers are expecting uniquely personalized products to fit their artistic vision. Photo books, albums, prints, wall décor, cards, and calendars are some common examples. If you’re a photographer looking to print photo books of your work, here are some things to consider:
- Select Photo Book Size and Type:
- Common sizes include 8×8, 10×10, and 12×12 inches. Photo album types may include hardcover, softcover, lay-flat, or even eco-friendly options.
- Cover Material and Finish:
- You can choose from different textures, colors, and finishes to personalize the look.
- Design the Cover:
- You can upload your different images to create a fully custom cover.
- Custom Text and Titles:
- Add customize text to the cover to give your photo album a personal touch. You can include titles, names, dates, or quotes that are relevant to the photos inside.
- Layout and Arrangement:
- Plan the layout and arrangement of your photos within the album. Consider how you want to tell your story.
- Page Paper and Quality:
- Select the type of paper for your photo album pages. The paper choice can impact the overall look and feel of the album.
3. Printing on New Substrates
When making prints, you may have tried substrates such as paper, acrylic, and canvas. However, new material available at Printique can offer a new look that are becoming increasingly more popular.
Metal Prints
Metal prints has a sleek and modern appearance. Prints on metal yields high-resolution, vibrant images with sharp details. The surface’s reflective properties intensify colors and contrast, resulting in a contemporary and dynamic visual impact. The metal’s durability ensures long-lasting image quality, making it suitable for professional displays and outdoor settings. Metal prints offer a sophisticated and professional feel, ideal for showcasing modern photography, artwork, or any visual content that demands a cutting-edge presentation.
Wood Prints
Wood prints offer a warm and rustic appearance. The natural grain and texture of the wood add depth and character to the image, giving it an organic and timeless quality. Colors may appear softer and more muted, contributing to a vintage or nostalgic feel. Wood prints evoke a sense of connection to nature and heritage, making them ideal for nature scenes, family portraits, or any setting where a traditional and authentic ambiance is desired.
Glass Prints
Glass prints have a captivating quality. The transparency and high-gloss finish enhance colors, contrast, and depth. Light passing through the glass creates a vibrant, almost three-dimensional effect. The interplay of light and the reflective surface adds movement and richness to the image. Glass prints offer a sleek, modern aesthetic, making them ideal for contemporary interior decor. They are durable and resistant to fading, moisture, and scratches, ensuring long-lasting vibrancy and detail in the photograph.
4. Easy Wall Mounting Options
Mounting photos on a wall offers numerous creative options. Traditional frames provide a classic, organized look with a wide variety of styles and sizes.
Gallery Wraps
One may also use gallery wraps. In this method, the photograph is printed on canvas, and the canvas is stretched and wrapped around a wooden frame. Gallery wraps provide a clean, frameless look, and the image is visible from the sides, creating a contemporary display.
Stickable Photo Tiles
Stickable photo tiles at Printique provide a convenient way to swiftly embellish your home. If you’re not content with their placement, the adhesive backing ensures effortless removal and repositioning without harming your walls. These photo tiles are ready to hang upon arrival, eliminating the need for nails or tools.
Printique’s wall photo tiles come with substantial ¾” foam backings. This not only provides you with durable and pliable foam picture tiles but also enhances the visual impact of your images. The lightweight foam creates a three-dimensional effect while safeguarding your photos.
Hanging Systems
Instead of traditional frames, some people prefer using hanging systems like gallery rails or wire systems. These allow for flexible arrangements and easy swapping of photos without putting holes in the walls.
The choice of mounting method depends on personal preferences, the style you want to achieve, and the specific requirements of the photograph. Consider factors like the image’s size, where it will be displayed, and your budget when deciding which method to use.
Conclusion
Printing photographs involves choosing the right combination of paper finishes, substrates, and mounting options to achieve the desired visual impact and longevity. Paper finishes range from glossy, which delivers vibrant colors and sharp details, to matte, which minimizes glare and offers a soft, elegant look. Luster and satin finishes strike a balance between the two. Substrates, such as canvas, metal, or acrylic, offer diverse textures and durability. For mounting, choices include matting and framing for a classic touch, gallery wraps for a contemporary feel, foam core or acrylic for rigidity, or even shadow boxes for added depth and dimension. Selecting the ideal combination depends on artistic preferences, the photo’s subject, and the intended display environment.
