Large photo paper prints

Will your file hold up at this size?

Enlarging shows everything: noise, soft focus and heavy editing all become more visible. Work out the size you want and check the pixel dimensions, keeping in mind that big prints viewed from a few metres need less resolution than a piece inspected up close. Avoid simply stretching a small file in software and hoping it holds up. If the original is a negative or transparency, a good scan can make a real difference, which is where drum scanning comes in. Send us a sample and we can tell you honestly how it looks.

Lustre, gloss or matt photo surfaces

Surface changes the mood of an image. Gloss gives deep blacks and punchy colour but reflects windows and spotlights, so it suits controlled lighting. Lustre or satin papers have a fine texture that keeps much of that depth while taming glare, which makes them a practical choice for portraits and display work. Matt suits a quieter look, with blacks that sit back. If you plan on framing, the glazing changes things again. Our photo printing page explains the wider range of options.

Handling big sheets without damage

A large sheet of photo paper is surprisingly easy to crease, and one sharp bend leaves a permanent mark. Carry it with two people, by opposite edges, and let it relax flat before you frame it. Wash your hands or wear cotton gloves, as fingerprints show on many surfaces. Rolled prints should be stored image side out in a sturdy tube, away from damp. If the print will be on show for long, consider mounting and laminating, since a rigid backing protects it from handling and curl.

Related topics

• Metallic prints
• Panoramic prints
• Large prints for photographers