{"id":802,"date":"2024-01-27T17:16:39","date_gmt":"2024-01-27T22:16:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/shinyprints.com\/blog\/?p=802"},"modified":"2024-01-27T17:16:40","modified_gmt":"2024-01-27T22:16:40","slug":"why-technology-matters-when-printing-photos-on-metal","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/shinyprints.com\/blog\/why-technology-matters-when-printing-photos-on-metal\/","title":{"rendered":"Why Technology Matters When Printing Photos on Metal"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Metal printing is one of the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.statista.com\/statistics\/1134479\/value-of-global-metal-3d-printing-market-by-region\/#:~:text=As%20of%202019%2C%20the%20most,nearly%2030%20million%20U.S.%20dollars.\">fastest growing art sectors<\/a> in the West. If you\u2019re thinking of printing photos on metal, you can\u2019t afford to overlook the importance of high-quality technology.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Technology has made it easier than <em>ever <\/em>to transfer your original art, but the transition isn\u2019t always smooth. Sometimes your colors come out faded or you lose precious detail. Even worse, incompatible printers can create metal prints that don\u2019t hold up to scratches or water exposure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We know the importance of technology first-hand \u2013 your anniversary gift, gallery showing, or trade show deserves nothing less than the best. We\u2019ll break down our printing process, the metal we use, and why our solutions result in long-lasting, brilliant metal prints.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re in a hurry, read our key takeaways on metal printing quality below:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>We use specialized dye sublimation technology made <em>specifically <\/em>for metal prints<\/li><li>Our go-to printing solution is Epson\u2019s leading F-series<\/li><li>ChromaLuxe aluminum is the best all-around metal option compared to stainless steel and copper<\/li><li>We provide custom sizes <em>and <\/em>custom shapes to individualize your metal prints<\/li><li>You can also choose between several finishes to stay true to your vision<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img src=\"https:\/\/lh7-us.googleusercontent.com\/VrFe4lxyTQIQsKBitjW7eyet2AuHKxv31sBQQx9VxvNfNmSTXq8eQdcuYJk2CBvc0InoAyrQcCLQFGKo1BNpxr5Lwq510GVCVOrAu_KDUihyUyoA6b2oFo5CMSje7qmsRbIqcwqGoo9c1wM5KqgVxUY\" alt=\"an assortment of colorful photos and photography equipment arranged on a pale brown desk\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Source Image: <a href=\"https:\/\/unsplash.com\/photos\/assorted-photos-on-beige-wooden-table-aV5xrpB0bwQ\">Unsplash<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2>How Do You Print Photos on Metal, Anyway?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There\u2019s a big difference between a superficial metallic sheen on a paper print and a durable metal print. Our <a href=\"https:\/\/shinyprints.com\/blog\/how-to-print-your-own-photos-on-metal\/\">metal printing process<\/a> is <em>specifically <\/em>designed for the unique needs of printing paintings, photos, and designs onto metal sheets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We\u2019ve committed ourselves to <a href=\"https:\/\/epson.com\/dye-sublimation-printers\">Epson\u2019s dye sublimation technology<\/a>, a unique printing method that results in the highest quality metal prints. This process works by printing an image on a specialized transfer paper, then placed on a metal sheet with a heat press at 400 degrees. This blend of heat and pressure turns the ink into gas that sinks into the metal surface.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The result? A luminous metal print that\u2019s so vibrant and subtle, it almost appears 3D. However, it\u2019s not just the printer that creates such a stunning result.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img src=\"https:\/\/lh7-us.googleusercontent.com\/Bs4WcrXyDPaMeTFDZ1k7JcyIOhrmVO9rO8vb7ZwjUwemZJj4r9SNPFxbTV2bcDXaDD00yNEku_AbXZv7h_rEIuAwzuxc5UAlIY7_J2Hu2WuC2pF2NZmtkUviZXgnqjt9IxDKTQrPo6i8dVPdmWIi1hM\" alt=\"an overhead shot of an artist's brown desk with a painting of a flower pot, watercolors, brushes, cups, and flowers\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Source Image: <a href=\"https:\/\/unsplash.com\/photos\/white-pink-and-green-floral-painting-CwSiAVlXOWQ\">Unsplash<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2>What are the Best Panels for Printing Photos on Metal?&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Choosing dedicated metal printing technology is only half the battle \u2013 the metal panel used <em>also <\/em>makes or breaks a metal print.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3>ChromaLuxe Aluminum Provides Several Benefits in One Place<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s not fair to choose between durability or a high-quality image. We use ChromaLuxe aluminum because they\u2019re <em>explicitly <\/em>designed for the metal printing process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Instead of wrestling with the limitations of other metals, ChromaLuxe aluminum\u2019s absorbent coating receives image transfers smoothly and consistently. Its vivid color translates well across all sorts of paintings and photos, offering consistent quality no matter your favorite color schemes or art style.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We\u2019ve been consistently impressed with how durable ChromaLuxe aluminum is, to boot. It\u2019s resistant to scratches, moisture, <em>and <\/em>is relatively lightweight\u00a0 \u2013 a winning combo if you need to ship or mount your work frequently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you ever spill something onto your metal prints or notice dust gathering up, <a href=\"https:\/\/shinyprints.com\/blog\/maintaining-perfection-caring-for-your-metal-prints\/\">maintenance is a breeze<\/a>. With such a well-rounded list of benefits, we plan on using ChromaLuxe aluminum sheets for the foreseeable future.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3>Stainless Steel is a Solid Option, But Lacks the Full Range of Benefits&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>This common material regularly shows up in your day-to-day life, but is it good for printing? Stainless steel is a solid enough choice for metal printing, but pales in comparison to aluminum for two reasons \u2013 cost and ink absorbance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Stainless steel substrates check off several boxes for durable metal prints, offering a long-lasting option that holds up well to scratches and scuffs. They\u2019re also fairly resistant to UV light, a major contributor to prints that lose color and detail from sun exposure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, they don\u2019t have the best ink absorption around. If you want to print rich and colorful photos or illustrations, you\u2019ll lose some subtlety.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Stainless steel is also <em>heavier <\/em>than aluminum, which can be frustrating if you ship your work often and want to watch shipping costs.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3>Copper is Lovely to Behold, But Not Very Durable&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>With a brilliant sheen and corrosion-resistant make-up, copper seems like a no-fuss option for metal printing. Sadly, this material has several issues that make prints less durable over time.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Copper metal substrates are on the thinner side, a feature that\u2019s a double-edged sword. On one hand, these substrates absorb ink quite well and create an impressively bold result. On the other hand, such a thin material means they\u2019re not very durable. Copper metal substrates gather up scratches easily and aren\u2019t built for repeated handling.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Our ChromaLuxe aluminum metal panels come with a polyester coating that resists scratches as well as UV exposure and water. When it comes to recreating your hard work, you shouldn\u2019t have to pick one benefit over the other.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Have more questions about how our printing process creates the most durable and high-quality metal prints? <\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/shinyprints.com\/contact_us.php\"><em>Send us an email<\/em><\/a><em> or call us at (866) 638-3384.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img src=\"https:\/\/lh7-us.googleusercontent.com\/fp7W4ruvVSTefHpcDUDEJj5HwmiRpVoCAuyQvEh15a8-BXQ-uGXikLc4DxMQYnYyY4fCyk8f8JZRP3V3ZSUBWrBo_wxdWNJelRzGW3f06IQ2eTYlEfG2EtuGVu2735xQye2Q8PeEfbDcnow5hNLIAqc\" alt=\"an overhead shot of scissors, pencils, and paper on a yellow sheet of paper\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Source Image: <a href=\"https:\/\/unsplash.com\/photos\/gray-scissor-with-envelope-and-pencils-bF2vsubyHcQ\">Unsplash<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2>Can You Create Custom Shapes or Sizes With Metal Printing?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s not just paper prints that get flexibility with different shapes and sizes. With the aid of our CNC machine, we can breathe life into just about any shape or size you have in mind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To create a truly one-of-a-kind metal print, we work with customers one-on-one to figure out how to approach the design. Our CNC CAD requires a photo, illustration, or design be turned into a vector image first before being traced. However, you don\u2019t have to complete this step \u2013 our team of <a href=\"https:\/\/shinyprints.com\/custom_sizes_shapes.php\">seasoned in-house designers<\/a> can complete the transition for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img src=\"https:\/\/lh7-us.googleusercontent.com\/g0eA6SXrVZCe5P8I-VyRmQ-qr-tbPXNEItd0HQ3cYEZUuYZOtOoIhmmAN6UH3PQHsjMlsYVZrnf4zeWh_HqqIHEgAqROaY-IQ1v1LRniQqxFnuCv1ACny89bPGa0bt9EFSZ11EZVCGI9piy_VUTIQhw\" alt=\"a desk with several books, sketchbooks, pencils, plants, and knick-knacks with a hand statue making the peace sign\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Source Image: <a href=\"https:\/\/unsplash.com\/photos\/brown-wooden-hand-peace-sign-decoration-on-book-8cjtEvlr7Z8\">Unsplash<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2>How Long Will My Photos on Metal Prints Last?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Our metal prints last for several years with minimal upkeep. We know how important it is to invest in a product you can trust to pass down to the next generation or hold up to repeated shipping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With the aid of high-quality ChromaLuxe aluminum metal sheets and a UV-resistant coating, your metal prints will hold up to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>General light exposure, including UV<\/li><li>Scratches<\/li><li>Water<\/li><li>Scuffs<\/li><li>Dust<\/li><li>Chemicals<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>However, even the toughest metal print isn\u2019t invincible. We have a <a href=\"https:\/\/shinyprints.com\/blog\/repairing-metal-prints\/\">few tips and tricks<\/a> if you accidentally chip or dent your purchase.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img src=\"https:\/\/images.unsplash.com\/photo-1613574450323-9df30ffe3566?q=80&amp;w=1000&amp;auto=format&amp;fit=crop&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;ixid=M3wxMjA3fDB8MHxwaG90by1wYWdlfHx8fGVufDB8fHx8fA%3D%3D\" alt=\"artist in gray long sleeve shirt holding white and blue ceramic mug\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Source Image: <a href=\"https:\/\/unsplash.com\/photos\/person-in-gray-long-sleeve-shirt-holding-white-and-blue-ceramic-mug-4xE62RAog5E\">Unsplash<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2>What Kind of Photos are Best for Metal Prints?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>We know it\u2019s not enough to have custom sizes and shapes \u2013 we <em>also <\/em>provide a variety of finishes to tailor your metal print as close to your vision as possible.\u00a0No matter the photo you use, we have a solution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3>Colorful Photos Look Fantastic with a Glossy Finish<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Whether you\u2019re printing a snapshot of a breathtaking sunset or a brilliant fashion spread, a glossy finish will bring out your work\u2019s best side. This finish is well-geared toward vibrant photos and illustrations since it intensifies color.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Our <a href=\"https:\/\/shinyprints.com\/blog\/glossy-or-matte\/\">white gloss option<\/a> gives a subtle sheen to your print that makes it appear like it\u2019s under glass. This is a prime option for work that\u2019s featured at shows, galleries, or stores \u2013 it has the professional sheen needed to grab attention.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3>Minimalist or Black and White Photos Pair Well With a Matte Finish<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re going to print work that\u2019s either single color or <a href=\"https:\/\/shinyprints.com\/blog\/black-and-white-metal-prints\/\">black and white<\/a>, matte finishes are ideal. While glossy goes for intense and bold, matte finishes are more subtle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While our matte finishes still boast lovely color and crisp detail, you can enjoy a different \u2018feel\u2019 to your work compared to glossy. For example, our silver matte has a subtle shimmer that adds a nostalgic touch \u2013 almost like a vintage print.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, glossy finishes can work well for black and white prints, too. Our <a href=\"https:\/\/shinyprints.com\/surface_options.php\">silver gloss finish<\/a> works well for high-contrast photos or illustrations, giving your work an extra sense of depth. When printing photos on metal, a wide variety of options ensures you won\u2019t have to compromise on your vision.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Now\u2019s a great time to start experimenting with metal prints and bringing out your work\u2019s best side. Try our convenient <\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/shinyprints.com\/wizard.php\"><em>online print wizard<\/em><\/a><em> today and see the results yourself.<\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Metal printing is one of the fastest growing art sectors in the West. If you\u2019re thinking of printing photos on metal, you can\u2019t afford to overlook the importance of high-quality technology. Technology has made it easier than ever to transfer your original art, but the transition isn\u2019t always smooth. Sometimes your colors come out faded [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":8,"featured_media":806,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":[],"categories":[18],"tags":[],"ppma_author":[45],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v16.2 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Why Technology Matters When Printing Photos on Metal - Shiny Prints Blog<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"When printing photos on metal, the technology used will make or break your purchase. 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