Paper:
All of my photographic prints are created using FineArt papers sourced from one of the oldest paper mills still in operation, with my preference being a 100% cotton based 'Baryta' paper.
Baryta refers to a paper with a barium sulphate layer that is applied to a fibre photo paper before the ink-receiving layer. This allows for a greater tonality between the highlight and shadows, as well as more vibrant colours.
My Open and Signed Edition prints are made using the Giclée process, as approved by the FineArt Trade Guild. This is an archival printing process using pigment inks, with a guaranteed print life in excess of 85 years when properly cared for.
Open Edition Prints are produced on a 315gsm 'Photo Rag Baryta', whereas Signed Editions a 300gsm 'Satin Baryta’. Both Papers have a beautiful, yet subtle, surface texture. However, the Satin Baryta has a softer sheen and retains greater detail, in my opinion.
Neither disappoints!
Due to the nature of these papers, no two sheets are the same, making each print unique.
Framing:
Whether you're a fan of minimalist Diasec or a more traditional wooden frame, I have a range of options to suit your taste. So, if you would like to receive your photograph ready to hang, I've got you covered.
Here are some examples of the more popular choices.
Contemporary Framing Suggestions:
Diasec
Invented in 1969, Diasec is the preferred method of archival mounting across the globe.
A photograph is first printed onto a fine art paper and then face-mounted, image side up, to transparent acrylic glass using advanced mounting techniques and a series of chemicals. This leaves the print archivally sealed - dust and air free. The back of the print is then mounted onto Dibond - an aluminium and plastic composite sheet.
Sandwiched between the acrylic glass and Dibond, the print is left perfectly flat with a high-gloss finish.
Metal
Metal prints are printed directly onto Dibond with a choice of a silver brushed aluminium finish or a smooth white finish.
When choosing the silver brushed finish, it will be visible in all the white areas of your photograph. This technique works well with black and white or colour photographic images that may be subjected to a particularly humid environment.
Acrylic
Reverse printing onto Acrylic, otherwise known as Plexiglas or Perspex, gives your prints a high-gloss finish and contemporary feel.
Unlike most substrates, Acrylic prints allow natural light to refract through the photograph, giving it a 3D feel, while enhancing the colours, brilliance and intensity. Ideal for high contrast images with bright colours.
Traditional Framing Suggestions:
Box Frame with Double Mount
The print is mounted on an acid-free substrate to ensure the photograph remains flat. Allowing for some of the 'paperwhite' it is then double mounted and set in a box frame behind optically clear UV protective glass.
The result is an image of exceptional quality, offering brighter colours, crisper details and no colour fade (storage and handling dependent).
Float Mounted Box Frame
The print is mounted on an acid-free substrate which is set on top of the mount; giving the illusion that it is hanging, unsupported, within the box frame. Optically clear UV protective glass is then used for the best viewing experience and protection.
The result is an image of exceptional quality, offering brighter colours, crisper details and no colour fade (storage and handling dependent).
Glass Selection
Left: Artglass 99 | Middle: Artglass AR99 | Right: Standard glass
One's choice of glass plays a huge role in the overall impact of the finished product. For this reason, I offer two options: Artglass AR99 and Artglass 99.
Artglass AR99, also known as 'Museum Glass', is the industry standard. Its anti-reflective properties offer a neutral reflection, which makes the glass appear 'invisible.' This ensures superb clarity while providing the best possible UV protection.
By comparison, Artglass 99 provides the same UV protection as the 'AR99' variant, at a more affordable price. Artglass 99 still provides 8% less reflection than standard glass, making it a good compromise.
If you're looking to preserve the true colour, texture and beauty of the framed photograph, then Artglass AR99 is the perfect option for you!