How to Choose the Right Picture to Print


When choosing a picture to print, there are crucial factors to consider. For example, if you’re hanging it over a sofa, you’ll want to pick one with a landscape orientation; otherwise, you may end up with too much space surrounding it. In addition, choosing a picture with the correct composition will ensure that your print looks its best when framed. Here are more factors to consider when choosing the right picture to print.

Consider the size and composition.

When selecting the right picture to print and frame, consider its size and composition. For example, a close-up of a child in a playroom will look good in a large frame, while a picture of a child running through a vast meadow may look odd in a smaller frame.

Taking into consideration the photo’s aspect ratio is also important. Printing a photograph at an aspect ratio different from its original size can result in losing important details. For example, a picture taken on a commercial shoot could look better in a portrait format but lose some points when printed at a different ratio. While this may not be a problem with every photograph, selecting a photo with the appropriate aspect ratio is always best.

Pixel count is another factor when choosing the right picture to print and frame. Pixel count refers to the amount of color and pixels in an image. For example, a photo with a megapixel rating of 10 would have 10 million pixels. This is similar to determining the square footage of a room. For example, an image with 10 million pixels would measure 5000 pixels wide by 2000 pixels high. By contrast, an image with two million pixels would be 3300 pixels wide by 2000 pixels high. 

Bright monitors produce more detail.

Modern monitors are typically brighter by default, opening up more detail in shadow areas. However, since most people will be viewing prints in less-than-ideal lighting, a photo in a glowing monitor may not have the same detail as a picture printed using a low-key printer. In such cases, a simple solution is to turn the brightness down on the monitor when looking at a soft copy of a photo to print. 

Using a calibrated monitor will give you the most accurate prints. The color gamut of a monitor and printer are set to different values, and if the monitors and printers are not calibrated, the results may be misleading. To calibrate your monitor, look for a bar with alternating 5%-gray squares at the top. Some printers will automatically convert images to CMYK color space, which produces more accurate color reproductions on the printed image.

Screens emit light while prints reflect it.

The difference between prints and screens is the way they reflect light. While screens can emit light, prints are reflective and have a more comprehensive range of brightness. The brightness of paper prints depends on the ink used. The contrast ratio between the two also differs. Prints look darker, while screens look lighter.

Computer screens use red, green, and blue pixels, while printers use cyan, magenta, and yellow ink. This makes digital screens appear brighter and more vibrant. On the other hand, prints use dyes and pigments which absorb light, making them look dull. The color spectrum includes the three primary colors of red, green, and blue, but other colors are produced by mixing. Consider all these differences when choosing the right picture to print. 

Glossy paper produces a reflection.

Printing pictures on glossy paper will result in a reflection, which can cause your photos to look less vivid. To avoid this problem, you should consider printing on matte paper. In addition, matte paper produces darker blacks than glossy paper, resulting in better contrast and finer details.

Glossy paper is often preferred for smaller prints because it retains fine detail. However, it produces a reflection on larger prints, which can make them difficult to view. Using matte paper will solve the problem, but it won’t give you that silky-smooth finish.

In addition to producing reflections, glossy paper can cause glare. It’s vital to ensure that your picture is oriented in a way that will minimize this glare.

Choosing a frame that fits your interior design.

When choosing a photo frame, it’s essential to pick one that complements the interior design of your home. For example, you can choose a black, flat-profile metal frame to match a minimalist interior or a rustic wood frame to fit a dark-painted wall. 

Also, consider the colors of the photo and the overall look and feel you’re going for. Ideally, the dominant colors of the piece should match the frame. Black-and-white images, for example, look classy in a black-and-white frame, while colored artwork works well when the standout colors of the frame match.

The shape of the frame is another important factor. Different shapes add movement and dimension to a room. Round frames, for example, can lend a softness to a modern-style room. Opposing forms can create a beautiful balance. Modern-style frames are sleek and clean, while more traditional frames are rounded or rectangular.

Transform an empty space. 

Now that you know which picture to print, it’s time to find a photo printing company to do the job. That’s where Livestock Framing stands out from the rest. We offer a hassle-free experience where you can simply upload a digital copy of your picture online and choose frames from six sizes & four colors. Then, wait for your picture-perfect framed masterpiece to be delivered to your doorstep, ready to hang. 

 

Honor the special moments from your big day with our picture framing services that tell more than a story.

Let us help you frame your precious moments. Gallery quality, not gallery prices. With six sizes to choose from, the selection process is simplified, the cost is straightforward, and shipping is always free.

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