Table of contents:
Fine art photography prints can be bought online (web galleries, photographers' websites) and offline (galleries, sales exhibitions, art fairs...). When buying art, you should be careful and only buy from reputable dealers or artists.
If you want more than just "a few posters on the wall" for your Airbnb apartment, home, office or even a cafe if you have your taste and style and know what you want, then you need to pay more attention to your choice of photos and not just buy the first one from your local DIY or furniture store. Fortunately, there are many places where you can buy high-quality printed photos today. And that's what we're going to look at in this article.
So what exactly is fine art photography?
Wikipedia gives the following definition of fine art photography:
Fine-art photography is photography created in line with the vision of the photographer as artist, using photography as a medium for creative expression. The goal of fine-art photography is to express an idea, a message, or an emotion.
Know the difference: Photographic Prints vs. Fine Art Prints
If you decide to buy fine art photography, there are two main types of prints to choose from: photographic prints and fine art prints. Both have their unique characteristics and uses. Let's look at the differences between the two.
Photographic Prints
Traditional photo prints are usually printed on glossy or matte photo paper using a digital photo printer. These prints are very sharp, have bright colours and high contrast and, most importantly, are an inexpensive way to print photos.
Photo prints are often used for family photos, travel photos, portraits, landscapes and other types of photos where colour accuracy and affordability are important. They are also often used by fine art photographers.
Fine Art Prints - Giclée prints
Fine Art Prints, on the other hand, are printed with high-quality archival inks on Fine Art acid-free paper. This type of print is designed to last for many years without fading or yellowing. Fine art prints have a more textured surface than photographic prints and offer a wider colour gamut, allowing for more subtle colour gradients.
Fine art prints are often used for art reproductions, gallery displays and high-end presentations where longevity and aesthetic appeal are paramount. They are more expensive than photographic prints due to the use of higher-quality materials and a more demanding printing process.
Photographic prints and fine art prints are both high-quality reproductions of images, but there are some key differences between the two:
| Feature | Photography print | Fine art print |
| Paper type | Photo paper | Archival paper or canvas |
| Inks | Dye-sublimation or inkjet | Pigmented |
| Lifespan | 3-5 years | 100+ years |
| Cost | Less expensive | More expensive |
| Quality | Good | Excellent |
| Durability | Less durable | More durable |
Where to buy high-quality fine art photographic prints?
There are two ways to get high-quality fine art photography prints - online and offline. If you want high-quality prints that will decorate your home for decades without fading, we recommend that you only buy from reputable retailers or directly from the photographer.
Online galleries
Many excellent online retailers are offering high-quality fine art photo prints. Here are some of the most popular and respected options:
Fine Art America
Fine Art America is an online marketplace that connects artists with buyers. They offer a wide range of fine art prints, including metal, acrylic and wood prints. Prints are produced on archival paper and inkjet printers. Fine Art America offers a variety of framing and matting options. They also offer a print guarantee, which means that if you are not satisfied with your print, you can return it for a full refund.
Pros
- Wide variety of prints from a variety of artists
- Affordable prices
- Custom framing options
- Money-back guarantee
Cons
- Quality control can be inconsistent
- Not all prints are made on archival paper
- Can be difficult to find specific prints
Saatchi Art
Saatchi Art is a leading online art marketplace with an extensive collection of fine art photography. They offer a wide range of styles and genres, from landscapes and portraits to abstract and conceptual photography. Saatchi Art also has a strong reputation for quality control, ensuring that all their prints are made from archival materials and printed to the highest standards.
Pros
- Curated selection of prints from emerging and established artists
- High-quality prints made on archival paper
- Extensive collection of styles and genres
- Strong commitment to supporting artists
Cons
- Prices can be higher than Fine Art America
- Limited framing options
- Not all prints are eligible for the print guarantee
- Shipping costs can be high
Artfinder
Artfinder is another popular online art marketplace with a focus on supporting emerging and established artists. They offer a wide range of fine art photography, including both limited edition and open edition prints. Artfinder is also known for its competitive pricing and easy-to-use platform.
Pros
- Easy-to-use interface
- Wide variety of prints from around the world
- Competitive prices
- Strong commitment to ethical sourcing and sustainability
Cons
- Not as many reviews as Fine Art America or Saatchi Art
- Limited framing options
- Some prints may not be made on archival paper
Rise Art
Rise Art is a newer entrant to the online art scene but has quickly gained a reputation for its high-quality prints and commitment to supporting young artists. They offer a curated selection of fine art photography with a focus on emerging talent. Rise Art also offers a unique 'try before you buy' programme, which allows you to borrow a print free of charge for 30 days before deciding whether or not to purchase it.
Pros
- Unique "try before you buy" program
- Curated selection of emerging talent
- Affordable prices
- Easy-to-use platform
Cons
- Smaller selection of prints than other platforms
- Limited framing options
- Not all prints are eligible for the print guarantee
- Shipping costs can be high
Society6
Society6 is an online platform where artists and designers can sell their artwork on a variety of products, including prints, textiles, and home décor. They offer a wide variety of fine art photography prints, from established artists to emerging talent. Society6 is known for its affordable prices and its commitment to supporting artists.
Pros
- Wide variety of prints from a variety of artists, including emerging talent
- Affordable prices
- Wide range of products, including prints, textiles, and home décor
- Strong commitment to supporting artists
Cons
- Not as high-quality prints as other platforms
- Limited framing options
- Not all prints are made on archival paper
- Shipping can be slow
ArtPhotoLimited
ArtPhotoLimited is an online gallery that specializes in limited edition fine art prints. They work with a select group of photographers to create high-quality prints that are made on archival paper and museum-quality inks. ArtPhotoLimited offers a wide variety of styles and genres, from landscape and portraiture to abstract and conceptual photography.
Pros
- High-quality prints made on archival paper and museum-quality inks
- Curated selection of limited edition prints
- Wide variety of styles and genres
- Strong commitment to quality
Cons
- More expensive than other platforms
- Limited selection of prints
- Not all prints are eligible for the print guarantee
- Shipping costs can be high
Lumas
Lumas is an online gallery that offers a curated selection of high-end fine art prints. They work with renowned photographers and artists to create museum-quality prints that are made on archival paper and pigment inks. Lumas' prints are known for their stunning detail and their ability to capture the essence of the original artwork.
Pros
- Museum-quality prints made on archival paper and pigment inks
- Curated selection of high-end fine art prints
- Striking detail and ability to capture the essence of the original artwork
- Strong commitment to quality
Cons
- Most expensive platform of all
- Limited selection of prints
- Not all prints are eligible for the print guarantee
- Shipping costs can be high
Photographers' websites
Buying fine art prints directly from photographers' websites offers a unique and rewarding experience for art lovers. It provides a direct link to the artists, allowing you to gain insight into their creative process, support their work and receive a high quality art print that is true to the artist's vision.
Pros
- Direct Support for Artists: When you purchase directly from photographers' websites, you are directly supporting the artists' livelihoods. This allows them to continue creating and sharing their work with the world.
- Access to Exclusive Prints: Many photographers offer limited edition prints or one-of-a-kind pieces that are not available through other retailers. This allows you to own a unique piece of art that is directly from the artist's hand.
- Personalized Interactions: Many photographers are happy to interact with their customers and provide insights into their work. You may have the opportunity to ask questions, request specific prints, or even commission new pieces.
- Higher-Quality Prints: Photographers often control the printing process for their work, ensuring that the prints are produced to the highest standards of quality. This includes using archival-quality inks and papers that will preserve the artwork for years to come.
- Custom Framing Options: Some photographers offer custom framing services, allowing you to choose the style and materials that perfectly complement your print. This provides a truly personalized and curated experience.
Cons
- Limited Selection: Photographers' websites often have a smaller selection of prints compared to larger online retailers. This means you may not find the exact artwork you are looking for.
- Potential for Inconsistent Quality: While most photographers strive for high-quality prints, there is a risk of inconsistent quality control due to the direct-to-consumer nature of the sales process.
- Limited Refund or Exchange Policies: Photographers may have more restrictive refund or exchange policies compared to larger retailers. It is important to read the fine print before making a purchase.
- Limited Payment Options: Some photographers may have limited payment options, such as credit cards only. This may be inconvenient for some buyers.
- Potential for Extended Shipping Times: Shipping times may be longer when ordering directly from photographers, especially for international orders.
Brick-and-mortar galleries
Brick-and-mortar galleries offer a unique and immersive experience for art lovers seeking fine art photographic prints. These physical spaces offer the opportunity to engage with art on a personal level, interact with experts and discover hidden gems within a curated collection.
Pros
- Immersive experience: Galleries provide an immersive environment where you can fully appreciate the artwork in its physical form. This includes viewing the prints in different lighting conditions, examining the details of the prints and experiencing the overall aesthetic of the gallery.
- Expert guidance: Experienced gallery staff can provide valuable insight into the artwork, the artist's background and the printing process. They can also help you narrow down your selection based on your preferences and budget.
- Discover hidden gems: Galleries often represent a wide range of artists, including emerging and established photographers. This gives you the opportunity to discover hidden gems and unique pieces that may not be widely available elsewhere.
- Supporting local artists: By buying from bricks-and-mortar galleries, you are directly supporting the local art community. This helps to ensure that galleries can continue to exhibit and promote the work of talented artists.
- Physical ownership: Buying from a gallery gives you physical ownership of the artwork, allowing you to proudly display it in your home or office. This tangible ownership can add a touch of elegance and personal expression to your décor.
Cons
- Limited selection: Brick-and-mortar galleries typically have a smaller selection of prints than online retailers. This can make it difficult to find the specific artwork you are looking for.
- Higher prices: Prices for fine art photo prints at brick-and-mortar galleries may be higher than online retailers due to overhead costs associated with physical space, staff and marketing.
- Limited flexibility: You may not have the same flexibility to choose specific sizes, framing options or customisations as online retailers.
- Potential for limited availability: Some prints may be limited or exclusive to certain galleries, making them difficult to find if you are unable to visit in person.
- Potential for longer sales cycles: Galleries may have shorter sales cycles, making it more difficult to buy artwork at certain times of the year.
Art fairs
Art fairs provide a vibrant and dynamic environment for art lovers to discover and collect fine art photographic prints. These events bring together a diverse range of galleries, artists and collectors, providing an opportunity to experience artworks first-hand, engage with artists and make unique acquisitions.
Pros
- Wider selection: Art fairs typically feature a wider selection of prints than individual galleries or online retailers. This gives you a greater chance of finding the specific artwork that matches your taste and aesthetic preferences.
- Direct interaction with artists: Attending art fairs allows you to interact directly with the artists behind the artwork. This provides an opportunity to gain insight into their creative process, the inspiration behind their work and their unique artistic vision.
- Competitive prices: Art fairs often offer competitive pricing compared to brick-and-mortar galleries due to the combined marketing and promotional efforts of participating galleries and artists.
- Discovery of hidden gems: Art fairs provide a platform for emerging and established artists to showcase their work, giving you the opportunity to discover hidden gems and unique pieces that may not be widely available elsewhere.
- Sense of Community: Attending art fairs immerses you in a vibrant community of art lovers, enthusiasts and collectors. This can broaden your understanding of art appreciation and inspire new perspectives.
Cons
- Time-consuming: Art fairs can be time-consuming as you navigate through a large number of booths and meet with multiple artists and galleries. This can make it difficult to make informed decisions within the limited time frame of the event.
- Pressure to buy: The dynamic and energetic atmosphere of art fairs can create a sense of pressure to make impulsive purchases. It's important to take your time, think about your preferences and avoid impulse buying.
- Limited flexibility: You may not have the same flexibility to choose specific sizes, framing options or customisation as you would with online retailers.
- Potential for negotiation issues: Negotiating with gallery representatives or artists can be challenging, as you may need to navigate the complexities of pricing structures, commissions and shipping arrangements.
- Quality assurance challenges: While most galleries and artists strive to provide high quality prints, there is a risk of inconsistency in print quality due to the nature of fairs and the volume of artwork handled.
Limited vs. Open editions
Limited edition fine art photography prints are produced in a predetermined number of copies, typically ranging from 10 to 500. The artist or the gallery determines the number of prints in the edition, and once all copies have been sold, the print is no longer available to purchase. This exclusivity can increase the value of limited edition prints, making them more desirable to collectors.
Open edition prints, on the other hand, are not subject to a predetermined number of copies. The artist or the gallery can print as many open edition prints as they wish, and the prints are typically available to purchase indefinitely. As a result, open edition prints are generally more affordable than limited edition prints.
Collectibility: If you are interested in collecting fine art photography prints, limited edition prints may be a better choice, as they have the potential to appreciate in value over time.
Affordability: If you are on a budget, open edition prints may be a more affordable option.
Exclusivity: If you prefer to own a print that is not widely available, a limited edition print may be a better choice.
Personal preference: Ultimately, the best way to decide which type of print is right for you is to consider your personal preferences and priorities.
Signed prints
While limited edition prints offer the promise of exclusivity, there is always the risk that the photographer may change their mind and produce more copies than originally planned. This can devalue the print and make it less desirable to collectors.
To eliminate this risk, signed editions provide a more secure investment. When a photographer signs a print, they are essentially putting their own stamp of approval on it. This signifies that they believe in the quality of the work and are willing to put their name on it.
As a result, signed editions are typically more valuable than un-signed prints. This is because they offer a sense of authenticity and provenance that is not present in un-signed works. Collectors are willing to pay a premium for signed prints, knowing that they are purchasing a piece of art that is truly unique and valuable.
For collectors who appreciate the artistic process and the unique value of each print, signed editions are a must-have. They offer a tangible link to the artist and a piece of art that is truly one of a kind.
Authenticity: A signed print is a guarantee that the print is authentic and has not been tampered with.
Provenance: The signature provides a record of the print's history and ownership, making it more valuable to collectors.
Collectibility: Signed prints are more collectible than un-signed prints, as they are considered to be more rare and more valuable.
Uniqueness: Each signed print is unique, as the artist's signature is a personal touch that cannot be replicated.