Metal might be a newer printing medium, but it has been around long enough to have refined the craft. Our Chromaluxe aluminum does a lot of the work to highlight the beauty of your photo, but there are definitely a few tricks to keep in mind that can help take your prints from great to gorgeous. We’ve compiled some of the most common mistakes people make when printing their work on metal so you don’t have to make them! It’s important to keep the following factors in mind:
Choosing the Right Image
Our printing process produces the highest possible quality images, but when preparing photos for metal printing, the image you choose is critical. Starting out with low-quality, blurry, or pixelated pictures, or choosing images that are too small will not translate well onto metal. Select images that have high resolution, are sharp and clear, and are of the right size and dimensions. This will ensure that the final print is of high quality and looks its best.
Considering the Metal’s Finish
The variety of finishes is one of the major appeals to metal printing. Each finish can drastically change the mood and look of your photo! However, you must make sure that the finish you choose complements the features of your photo, rather than subtract from them. Keep in mind that glossy finishes tend to be more reflective, which creates beautiful vibrancy. Matte finishes are far less reflective and often have a much more subtle look.
Using the Right Software
When preparing photos for metal printing, it is important to use the right software. Photo editing software, such as Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom, are commonly used for adjusting images before printing. However, not all software is created equal, and it is essential to use software that is compatible with metal printing to achieve the best results. We have another blog post with a few of our favorite free photo editing apps.
Considering the Lighting Conditions
Once your print comes out exactly the way you want, it’s important to consider where you will be showcasing your art. Due to their reflective nature, metal prints are most effectively displayed in an area with controlled lighting. A soft matte finish captures every grain of detail in natural lighting, while a glossy print can brighten up an indoor space with dimmer lighting.
Proper Handling
We love metal prints because they are so easy to maintain and transport, especially compared to delicate paper prints displayed in fragile glass frames. While metal prints are much more durable, they still require proper handling and care to remain in good condition. Avoid touching the surface of the print with your fingers, as this can leave smudges and fingerprints. Use a soft cloth to gently clean the surface if necessary, and securely fasten your print to its mount to keep it locked in place.
Even if this is your first time metal printing, you’ll look and feel like a professional by avoiding these five blunders. Printing photos on metal can result in beautiful, durable, and modern-looking artwork with a minimal amount of effort on your part. Now that you’re set up for success, start creating your dazzling metal print with Aluminyze!
