Despite today’s digital world, plenty of us still want to professional print photos as a way to turn our iPhone memories into tangible keepsakes.

But have you ever wondered why your prints don’t always look as good as you imagined?

While there are many DIY options available, working with a professional photographer can take your prints to the next level. Not only do we have access to high-quality printing pros, but we also have the expertise to ensure that your images look their absolute best.

From selecting the right medium to go with your home decor to perfecting the color balance and resolution, we’ll cover everything you need to know to get the most out of your prints.

So, let’s dive in and discover why a photographer is a perfect partner for your professional printing needs!

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Why You Should Hire a Photographer for Prints Instead of CVS

Should you really go to Wal-Mart or CVS to get your photos printed? If the images are coming from an iPhone, that could be a simple solution (though the quality is going to be pretty grainy!).

But if you’ve already spent hundreds of dollars on a professional photo shoot, don’t you want them to actually look like professional print photos?

Working with a photographer that offers printing services (like us!), you’ll know you’re getting the best quality of your prints. We know exactly how to fine-tune your digital photos so that the colors come out just right on your canvas or photo book.

Did you know that I (Dawn) have a background in custom prints and framing? And knowledge is certainly power!

Finding the best medium for your photos to display and gift is a passion of ours. Here are a few tips that will help you decide how best to print your image.

Types of Professional Photo Prints

There is no greater joy than looking back at photos of friends and family. Prints are the time capsules of our lives. They can transport us back to a magical moment, that killer outfit you spent months looking for, or those small smiling faces. They are one of the puzzle pieces of happiness.

This is why we also share or gift photo prints to others. Whether it’s:

• Photo books
• Calendars
• Custom frames, or
• Canvas art

there is something so beautiful and personal about this gift.

Thinking about prints as home décor can make us a bit nervous. But we can assure you, it’s a happy, nervous kind of excitement.

There are so many things to consider when choosing prints like:

• Your style
• The footprint of your home, and
• The wide variety of mediums for custom prints

We could go on forever. There are truly options for any style.

So, if you want to create truly stunning pieces of art, work with us!

Here are the steps we take to ensure we get you professional photo prints that you’ll be proud to display in your home or give as gifts to loved ones.

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Step One: We Help You Choose a Medium

Let’s start with the basics. What is a print medium?

A printing medium refers to the material on which a print is created. Pretty simple, right? Now that you are familiar with the term, is there a medium you absolutely love or gravitate towards naturally?

• Paper: The simplest form of printing, but with so many fine arts paper and framing options, it can make this option just as dynamic as any other medium.
• Canvas: A bit more artistic than conventional printing. This option can add a multi-dimensional look with the options of varying canvas thickness and gallery wrapping, perfecting your desired look.
• Metal/ Aluminum: The unique and modern look you’ve been looking for! Metal prints offer a vibrant and sleek finish, creating a sense of depth when mounted on your wall.
• Acrylic: A lightweight, transparent plastic that is also shatter-resistant. Photos can be printed directly on acrylic, adding rich color, or can be used as a substitute for glass in your framed print.

More Professional Photo Prints:

If you find your walls are filled, or you just want something more tangible, something you can hold versus hang, we have a great selection of books, albums, and other unique gifts that can be passed onto future generations.

Our albums alone are gorgeous and are made with archival (this means they’ll last a long time) materials. Guaranteed to bring love, laughter, and endless smiles to your family for many years to come.

We also have deckled prints! Deckled edge prints have a dramatic feathered edge, giving your photo that hand-made appearance. This makes the print feel as though you have just uncovered a long-lost antique book. The material is an archival, matte cotton rag paper that will last a lifetime.

Deckled edge prints also have a slightly textured surface that is a pleasure to touch. They are stunning in appearance and are a picture-perfect option for those that like something a little different.

Step Two: Decide Where To Hang Your Professional Print Photos

Take a stroll through your home, office, or anywhere else you may want to display your photos. Be deliberate. Look at the decor of each room.

Most of us decorate the separate rooms of our homes a bit differently. For example, your living room will have different art than your kitchen. Your office will have a different look than your child’s bedroom.

How would you describe your overall style? Shabby chic? Rustic-industrial? Or modern flare?  

Referring to our guide above, does your space already have some of these mediums? Are your current prints vintage framed or modern wrapped canvas? Are they more traditional?

If you find that they are, then framed or canvas might be best.

If your décor is more modern, then metal or canvas might be best. Though there are modern frames also. This can be a big help in deciding what medium is right for you.

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Step Three: Talk About Your Home Aesthetic

BUT… (and that’s a big but)

Don’t let this be the sole factor in making your medium choices. 

All these mediums can be intermingled! Making your decisions is all the more fun! But if you need some inspiration, as always, we’re here for you.

There aren’t any rules against hanging what you love in your home. It is your home, after all, and you are the only one that knows you best.

Sidenote: Our style tastes have the tendency to change over time. Be sure to pick a medium that can reflect any future changes in your home. This will ensure your selection will be a lasting stable in your home or office for years to come.

That being said, don’t be shy about trying something new.

Step Four: Get High Quality, Professional Photo Prints EVERY Time

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A post shared by Angela Clifton Photo | Tampa Portrait Photographer (@angelacliftonphoto)

Let’s get real for a moment and drop some truth bombs, shall we?

Organizing a photography session is a lot of work. Our clients spend months coordinating and planning them down to the smallest details.

After going through all this planning and prepping, it only makes sense to have your beautiful portraits displayed around your home or in the home of loved ones! 

Let’s make it happen! We love to collaborate with our clients. Professional print photos make a profound statement, and we are here to help you choose that statement piece that will leave friends and family awe-struck.

As photographers, we’re here to help you get professional print photos that are high-quality! Contact us to talk print ideas that will make your guests stop and stare!