The world of flowers is a place of uncanny beauty. Thousands of species, so unique in their creation, fleeting moments of blooming and wilting. Each stem holding lessons untold. Story after story waiting to be captured. I am a fine art photographer. I am mesmerized by the seasons, the way when we engage all of our senses, the most simple movements become art that remains. My collections are one of a kind, only offered once a year. Photographs that are beacons of time, meant to be coveted and inspire you time and time again. Moments not only to treasure but to remind you of the beauty that exists in every unexpected place.
7 Common Questions I Get About Fine Art Paper 📜
Hello Reader,
As a fine art photographer, my photographs are more than a source of income. They are my passion- my heart and soul entwined into the image. Work that I take pride in sharing with you, whether finding the perfect arrangement or developing the proper lighting to capture the magic, each image containing my very soul.
That is why I emphasize detail in every step of my process. The final step- printing- is as important as planning, arranging subjects, and executing the photoshoot. The printing process and paper I choose will impact my photographs' ability to connect with you.
Education is a big part of my work as an artist, so I want to provide as much information on fine art paper as possible. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions I receive about fine art paper, specifically the art paper I use. |
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What is the difference between photographic paper and fine art paper?
The paper used at a photo printing shop differs from what professional artists use for their prints. Fine art paper is made from natural fibers such as unbleached cotton for color purity. Other types of papers are often cheaper to produce, but they include additives and synthetic fibers that do not hold up over time. When collecting fine art, you expect the paper to withstand the test of time.
What paper is best for fine art printing?
The standard in the fine art world is giclée printing. This type of inkjet printing uses archival-quality pigmented inks (rather than dye inks) and produces at least 300 dots per inch (DPI) to ensure the highest resolution possible. These higher-quality prints reveal the detail and color saturation needed to create a work of art.
What are the benefits of giclée printing?
Giclée prints are typically 100% cotton and are free of acids and chemical additives to reduce the chance of yellowing or instability over time. As a result, giclée prints are considered to last 400 years before any signs of fading for black and white prints and 200 years for color prints. This type of longevity ensures they will last for several generations. Giclée prints also allow for the most accurate image printing that can be produced currently, maintaining the beauty of the original subject with visually stunning results.
Why is it essential to have acid-free paper?
Acids and chemical additives found in lower-quality prints are problematic because they will inevitably break down the fibers within the paper; this is why newspaper clippings and old family photos become yellow and brittle over time. On the other hand, archival quality giclée prints won't yellow or become brittle over several generations because they are 100% cotton and use high-quality inks that won't damage the fibers.
Does the weight, texture, and type of paper matter?
Within the world of giclée printing, there are many options. An artist can choose matte or glossy; smooth or textured; warm or cool-toned paper; or natural or pure white paper. These distinctions are something that a collector might want to consider if they would like to start. Options like paper weight and thickness also play a role in the print's shipping, longevity, and durability. You can learn more about why I choose the weight, textures, and type of paper for my images here, or contact me for questions about your specific print.
What to do when a fine art paper curls?
Because I ship my larger prints in a tube, curling can occur. You can uncurl fine art paper by rolling it in the opposite direction of the curl. For example, if the print is curled after shipping, carefully uncurl it, re-roll it in the opposite direction, and place it back in the tube.
(It’s important to note that I don’t send my 8x10 inch prints and cards in a tube, so skip this step when attempting to uncurl those.)
After a few hours, you can take it out and put it on a table with a piece of flat paper or cardboard to protect the print. Next, lay some heavy objects (such as a book) on top of the print to help it flatten completely.
What are my fine art paper specifications?
I use Canson and Hahnemühle papers for all of my fine art floral prints. These are museum-quality giclée prints with a smooth, matte finish. Each is 100% cotton-based with rich color and black density, achieved without optical brightening agents. I choose these fine art papers for my prints because they produce some of the highest quality paper, allowing me to share every magical detail of my floral photographs.
What my prints are made of matters to me. I hope I answered any questions you may have had about fine art prints. I’m happy to answer any more questions you may have about fine art paper, framing, photography, and beyond!
All my love,
Elena
For more joyful inspiration explore my Fine Art Print Collection, Small Fine Art Prints, and Customized Art Pieces. If a piece calls to you it is my pleasure to offer two complimentary Floral Art Cards along with a Framing Consultation for your new artwork. I look forward to connecting more with you! |
Flower Art Prints
The world of flowers is a place of uncanny beauty. Thousands of species, so unique in their creation, fleeting moments of blooming and wilting. Each stem holding lessons untold. Story after story waiting to be captured. I am a fine art photographer. I am mesmerized by the seasons, the way when we engage all of our senses, the most simple movements become art that remains. My collections are one of a kind, only offered once a year. Photographs that are beacons of time, meant to be coveted and inspire you time and time again. Moments not only to treasure but to remind you of the beauty that exists in every unexpected place.
The intimacy of gifting. When I choose my packaging, I choose it the same way I choose a dress for a formal occasion. I want every detail to offer something beautiful. A sprinkle of whimsy, a deep inhale of the extraordinary. My floral art notecards are, in their own right, pieces of art. You can frame them, write love notes on them, and keep them as forever treasures. They are printed on the same fine art paper, and when I package them, I ensure the same care and attention that I give my...
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