Fine Art Products
Photography Options
High-resolution, large-format photography is the main cornerstone of creating quality large format prints for display as a fine art product. When choosing what image to use or how to acquire the right image there are many factors to consider. Hiring a professional photographer to take custom images may be the best option, but it can also be the most expensive especially when combined with the cost of traveling to your chosen location and potentially hiring models for the shoot. Another option is leasing or purchasing the rights to use a royalty-free stock image from sites such as:
- www.istockphoto.com
- www.shutterstock.com
- www.bigstockphoto.com
- www.dreamstime.com
- www.masterfile.com
- www.gettyimages.com
However, stock images are often very generic and the general public has grown savvy in recent years of picking out when a stock image has been used. In fact many stock images have been repurposed into popular memes indelibly changing the lives of the models hired for the photos by making them minor internet celebrities. Therefore, if you want to create a unique image for your print, taking your own photographs is the best option. In our modern age, everyone has a digital camera in their phone, but we recommend using a dedicated digital camera to ensure the highest quality images with the most pixel data available when taking your photos.
High-end digital cameras can be as high as 12-Megapixels. One Megapixel equals one million individual pixels. For example, a 12-Megapixel camera may have a resolution that is 4288 pixels wide x 2848 pixels high. The ideal resolution for file size when printing a large format fine art photograph is 300 DPI (dots per inch.) However, a resolution of 100 DPI, for viewing at a distance greater than 10 feet, or 150 DPI for closer viewing is adequate. You never want to go below 100 DPI and above 300 DPI is generally wasted effort. Therefore to keep within a 100-300 DPI guideline, the maximum size we can output a print while minimizing distortion is 42.88″ wide (4288 pixels wide divided by 100). The larger the original photograph and the more pixel data acquire with a good camera the more wiggle room you have on these equations.
Although the goal is to use the best possible source photograph we understand that may not always be available. Therefore to best assist our customers SpeedPro uses special software to smooth out the “jaggies” of less than optimal files that contain less pixel data. Our software has proprietary algorithms to create better enlargements than even Photoshop, as long as there is sufficient pixel data. We will not guarantee a miracle, but we will endeavor to make a significant improvement.
If asked, professional photographers will always tell you that lighting is fundamental to good photography. When you go on your photo shoot you will want to make sure that the lighting is set up properly to ensure the final product is optimal. Depending on your subject matter instead of relying on natural light we recommend you bring in professional photo-shoots lighting, many good options can be rented if you have not budgeted purchasing the equipment.
A common mistake when dealing with lighting is glare, you see this in photos taken on the red carpet at events and paparazzi have too many flash photos being taken at the same time creating uneven lighting with harsh shadows. Always be aware of the lighting sources for your photo so that the lighting will be consistent, and the quality of photographs will not suffer.
No matter what you intend to use your photographs for, it is important to stay on brand. Consistent photography style is like a signature that helps your audience recognize your unique vision in the subjects you choose and the angles and lighting you use to capture your image. Be proud and use that style across your fine art prints to further an unmistakable brand.
The above are some of the most basic things to consider when choosing your photography options. Professional photography is a career in itself which is why the highest quality photos come from those who have dedicated themselves to pursuing that field. Occasionally, a beginner can chance into a wonderful photo opportunity and capture a moment, but it takes a trained eye that is always on the lookout and prepared with tools at the ready to consistently deliver the highest quality images.
Another factor that should be considered when going out to take fine art photos is the weather. Your lighting will always be tied to natural forces when taking photos outside, so check the weather report so you don’t unnecessarily waste effort waiting for the sun to appear.
Always remember to be creative. Tap into the reserves of imagination within yourself to bring forward a unique image that sends the message you intend. Always consider the colors and the mood of a piece when framing a photograph shot in your mind’s eye. Vibrant colors affect our emotions and create aesthetically pleasing images.
And finally, take as many photos as you can bear. The more you take, the more likely you are to find a diamond in the rough. Our SpeedPro professionals will be happy to work with you and give advice in choosing the best suited image for your fine art print. Come to one of our many national locations to consult with us at your convenience.
PARTNER WITH SPEEDPRO NW RALEIGH FOR ALL OF YOUR LARGE-FORMAT PRINTING NEEDS.
Speedpro Northwest Raleigh is the leader in large format printing of graphics and signs for promotional and advertising purposes. We specialize in finding creative solutions to help you achieve your marketing and branding goals. You only get one chance to make a first impression and we can help you make it a great one. Speedpro offers complete design, large format printing, and installation services.
We offer interior office signs, wall murals and art reproduction prints that will enhance your décor and let customers who walk into your office know that you are a professional company worthy of their business. Our trade show display graphics, window graphics and vehicle wraps help you to standout and make a visual impression that will capture new prospects and fuel future growth for your business. We also offer a variety of Retail Graphic Displays, banners, posters, event graphics and banner stands. At SpeedPro, we understand what your brand means to you, and we are here to print solutions that promote your brand and enhance your decor. We are your local source for large format graphics and signs.
OUR WORK SPEAKS FOR ITSELF
Our primary goal is to make your business pop. We work to make you stand out from the competition and achieve your business growth goals. We want you to rise above the pack and we are willing to do the work and help make that happen. As consultants in the large-format print industry, our goal is an ongoing relationship, allowing us to work alongside your team to meet the challenges of tomorrow. We work diligently to add value, provide better solutions and deliver the highest quality graphic prints. Look through our Portfolio and discover our commitment to quality, value and service.
VISIT OUR STUDIO TO LEARN MORE ABOUT SPEEDPRO’S GRAPHICS AND SIGNS.
Located in Wake County, NC in the Heart of the Triangle (I40 and Aviation Parkway), SpeedPro Northwest Raleigh serves clients throughout Wake, Durham, Orange, Chatham, Johnston and surrounding counties. While the local businesses we serve are in Raleigh, Durham, Cary, Morrisville, Research Triangle Park, and Chapel Hill, we also serve many businesses throughout North Carolina, the United States, Europe and other global locations. Our team is always ready to listen and offer insight into your next large format print project. Entrust your large format digital graphics needs to the leader in custom sign and graphics printing – SpeedPro NW Raleigh. Call today and see how we can help you with your next project. 855.451.9734