Hello everyone,

I've been offered to exhibit my pictures in a doctor's office around the corner. I need about 30 pictures for this, and I'm thinking about how I should print them.

So far, I've got two options: acrylic (expensive, but I like it best) or FineArt on Hahnemühle (needs framing, so a one time invest which will make changes cheaper, matte instead of glossy). What would you go for? Or would you print on a different medium?

Thanks!

Hi Fabian,

I had a similar problem, but that was 10 years ago. After much consideration, we decided on acrylic because it best met the expectations of the doctor's office. Frames have the disadvantage that they have to be chosen very individually. Acrylic is also the easiest to hang. However, you have to be aware that when the exhibition is over, you will have to store some of these acrylic panels at home.

When it comes to prints, I have had the best experience in Germany with “Meinfoto”.

There's heaps of different options for inkjet printing, I assume when you say Hahnemuhle you mean photo rag? It's a nice paper though I don't think it's what I would pick for maximum print impact, probably more suited to certain landscapes. They have many options such as fine Art Baryta, Baryta FB and Fine art Baryta satin in that paper brand. The first two glossy and the other semi gloss. I print my UW images on Ilford gold fibre gloss, which I quite like. The choice will probably be dictated by what is offered by your local printing services, but if you are doing 30 images maybe they would be open to getting different papers in. I would also suggest getting a sample done first, especially if you don't soft proof your images.

Consider what the lighting will be where the prints are shown. Different types of print and paper are suited to different kinds and levels of lighting. If framing, consider the kinds of glass available.

For example, viewing a high gloss will be more susceptible to reflections. So it wouldn't be a good choice where a light or window would reflect when viewed from an angle.

I also print a lot of photos, with around 20+ hanging at home. Most are 30" x 20" glossy metal prints. A few 30x30, and some smaller 16x12s in small spaces. I also have had similar displays to what you described at Salons, Coffee shops, etc. The first time i did this I cleared my walls of the best stuff, and refilled my house with newer, even better photos!

The metals prints are great looking, sharp, and modern. Frameless, easy to hang. Relatively affordable at around $200 for a 30" print and there are frequent 20-30% off sales.