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Customizing Your Fine Art Landscape Photo Print: Sizes, Crops, and Finishes for Art Collectors

When it comes to art collecting, one particular niche has attracted enthusiasts and art collectors: limited edition landscape prints. These beautiful depictions of nature, frozen in time, offer more than just aesthetic value. They represent exclusivity and artistic mastery. For both seasoned collectors and newcomers, limited edition landscape prints provide a perfect blend of visual appeal and exclusive ownership.

In this guide, we will explore why limited edition landscape prints have become desirable, how to start your collection, and what factors you should consider to make informed purchasing decisions.

SHOP Landscape Photography Print – Eucalyptus Rush

1. Why Customization is Key for Art Collectors

For landscape photo art print collectors the purpose often goes beyond simply decorating a wall. The landscapes you choose to collect likely resonate with you on an emotional level, transporting you to places that hold significance or inspire you in some way. But when you have specific needs, the customization process could be the vehicle that enhances these images in a way that works for you.

Customizing a landscape print allows you to:

Match the artwork to your space: If you are creating a gallery wall or looking for a statement piece, choosing the appropriate size, crop, and finish can help your landscape photo blend seamlessly into your collection.

Enhance the visual experience: The finish, framing, and material of the print all contribute to how the image is perceived, allowing you to bring out specific details, moods, or emotions.

Maintain a sense of uniqueness: Collaborating with a photographer to tailor the artwork to your preferences can make the piece feel personal, one-of-a-kind, and exclusive to your collection.

As a fine art landscape photographer, I sometimes encounter customers with specific needs. While I am always willing to collaborate with them and bring their visions to life, I also educate them about the impact of their choices. As an artist I am intentional about the final product that I offer and while it is important to meet the customer’s vision, it is worth mentioning that deviating too far from the artist’s vision may have less than ideal results.

SHOP Landscape Photography Print – Autumn Blaze

2. Aspect Ratios: Ensuring a Harmonious Print

Aspect ratio is an important consideration for both photographers and collectors. It dictates the relationship between the width and height of an image and affects how the print will look once displayed.

3.1 Understanding Aspect Ratios in Landscape Photography

Different photographers produce images with different aspect ratios. Common aspect ratios in landscape photography include:

  • 3:2: Standard for many DSLR cameras.
  • 4:3: Common in medium format and mirrorless cameras.
  • 1:2: Often used for wide views.
  • 1:3: For classic panoramic images.

3.2 Aligning Aspect Ratios with Your Collection

As a collector, understanding aspect ratios helps you select the best possible crop or size, if you are requesting a crop, or a custom size, which requires a crop.

Here is an example: imagine you have selected one of my panoramic prints, which comes in sizes: 20×60, 30×90, and 40×120. However, you want it at a custom size of 40×90. By selecting this size we are now changing the aspect ratio from 1×3 (30×90) to 1×2.25. This means that in order to accommodate this custom size we have to crop and lose 25% of the original image length.

Sometimes this can be done without ruining the integrity of the image, but not always. In fact I had a customer who made a very similar request. He wanted a panoramic image in size 37 x 90. In his case it worked out well. This is the original image – The Grand Awakening. And here you can see the final result of his print. Notice that the left size is missing an entire mountain, but in this case it worked out well.

SHOP Landscape Photography Print – Atlantic Glow

3. Choosing the Right Size for Your Space and Collection

The first step in customizing a landscape print is selecting the appropriate size for your space. It is common for photographers to offer a set list of standard sizes. If you have selected an image from a landscape photographer whose offered sizes do not meet your needs, engage with them and find out if they can accommodate you.

2.1 Standard Print Sizes for Collectors

Many collectors start with standard sizes, which offer flexibility and are compatible with most framing options. Common sizes for fine art landscape prints include:

  • 20″ x 30″
  • 24″ x 36″
  • 30″ x 45″
  • 40″ x 60″
  • 48″ x 72″

Additionally, panoramic sizes (1×3 ratio) are offered on more rare occasions. Common sizes for those are:

  • 15″ x 45″
  • 20″ x 60″
  • 25″ x 75″
  • 30″ x 90″
  • 40″ x 120″

2.2 Large Format Landscape Prints for Gallery Walls

For collectors looking to make a bold impact, large-format prints—measuring 40″ x 60″ or even larger, and 30” x 90” (for panoramic)—are perfect for filling bug walls in a home gallery, office, or open-concept space. Working with a photographer, you can ensure that the resolution of the image is high enough to support a large print without losing any detail.

2.3 Custom Sizes for Unique Spaces

If you have a uniquely sized wall or want a landscape print that fits within a specific frame, custom sizing may be necessary. Professional photographers and fine art printmakers are often happy to accommodate collectors by creating bespoke sizes that fit your exact requirements while preserving the integrity of the photograph.

SHOP Landscape Photography Print – The Heart

4. Cropping: How to Tailor the Image to Fit Your Collection

Cropping is an essential part of customization and can dramatically change how a landscape print feels within your collection. However, cropping should always be done with care, maintaining the photographer’s artistic intent while suiting your preferences.

4.1 Cropping for Composition and Emphasis

As a collector, you may want to emphasize certain aspects of the photograph, such as a striking tree in the foreground or the majesty of a distant mountain range. By working with the photographer, you can request a crop of the image in a way that draws attention to these key features, making the print more visually impactful. It is important to note that it is quite unlikely for a collector to want to change the original vision of the artist by requesting a crop. Having sold prints for over a decade (at the time of this writing) no customer has specifically requested a crop. The few times I have had to crop an image have been related to custom sizes, which changed the original aspect ratio (see section 2. Aspect Ratios, above).

4.2 Preserving the Photographer’s Vision

When making cropping decisions, it is important to consider the photographer’s original vision. Discuss any proposed changes with the photographer to ensure that the integrity of the composition is maintained. Drastic crops may detract from its overall impact and also not every photographic artist may be comfortable with the idea.

SHOP Landscape Photography Print – Gentleness

5. Selecting the Right Finish for Your Fine Art Landscape Print

The finish of a landscape print plays a major role in how the artwork is perceived. Different finishes bring out different qualities in the image, from the texture of the finished print to the vibrancy of the colors.

5.1 Matte vs Glossy: Which Works Best in Your Collection?

  • Matte Finish: A matte finish minimizes glare and reflections, providing a softer, more subtle look. It works well for collectors who want a more understated appearance.
  • Glossy Finish: Glossy finishes enhance color vibrancy and contrast, making the image appear more vivid. If you are looking to highlight the brightness or sharpness of a scene, a glossy finish may be a better option.

5.2 Canvas Prints: Texture and Timelessness

Canvas prints offer a tactile, painterly quality that appeals to some collectors. They work especially well with landscapes that have rich textures, such as forests, rocky and sandy scenes, etc. When printed on canvas, the image takes on an artistic feel.

5.3 Metal Prints: A Modern, Sleek Option

Metal prints are great for collectors with modern aesthetics. The smooth surface and reflective quality of metal prints give landscape photos a contemporary look. Metal is particularly effective for images with high contrast or vibrant colors, as it enhances these elements.

5.4 Acrylic Prints: For Vibrant, Immersive Colors

Acrylic prints are another fantastic option (highest quality and most expensive) for collectors who want bold, vivid colors, with incredible detail. The glass-like finish of acrylic, couples with the high quality metallic paper print underneath, enhances the depth of the image in an amazing way.

For more information, read: Choosing the Best Photo Print Medium.

SHOP Landscape Photography Print – Royal Mauian

6. Framing Your Landscape Print: Options for Collectors

The right frame can transform a landscape print, helping it blend into your collection or stand out as a focal point. When selecting a frame, consider the style of your home and the visual effect you want to achieve.

6.1 Traditional Framing for Classic Collections

Traditional wood or metal frames with matting are perfect for collectors who prefer a classic look. Matting provides a visual buffer between the image and the frame, allowing the viewer to focus on the photograph itself. This option is great for formal spaces, libraries, or offices.

6.2 Floating Frames for a Contemporary Look

Floating frames create the illusion that the artwork is “floating” off the wall, as the frame is hidden behind the print. This option works well for modern or minimalist spaces and brings a level of sophistication to the landscape print. 

6.3 Frameless Displays for a Minimalist Aesthetic

For a high-end, contemporary look, consider frameless displays. Acrylic and metal prints fall into this category and produce wall art that is very powerful.

For more information, read: Choosing a Frame for a Landscape Print: How To – Practical Guide.

SHOP Landscape Photography Print – Rainier Reflections

6. Collaborating with Photographers to Ensure Customization Meets Your Needs

As a collector, working closely with the photographer can ensure that your fine art landscape print is perfectly customized to your specifications.

6.1 Commissioning Custom Work

Some collectors may choose to commission photographers to create custom landscape prints tailored to their vision. Whether you want a specific location captured or a unique crop of an existing image, this collaborative process allows you to co-create a piece that holds personal significance.

6.2 Reviewing Proofs and Adjustments

Before finalizing the print, you can ask the photographer to provide digital proofs, which would be especially important when you are customizing the size and the crop of the print. Reviewing these proofs will help you ensure that you are satisfied with the customization and that there will be no negative surprises at the end.

6.3 Discussing Size and Crop for Optimal Impact

During the customization process, have an open dialogue with the photographer about the best size and crop for the image. Their expertise can help guide you toward decisions that will enhance the visual impact of the print while preserving the original vision and statement of the photograph.

SHOP Landscape Photography Print – Peace Unto My Soul

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1 What size should I choose for my landscape photo print?

The best size depends on the space where the print will be displayed and the visual impact you want to achieve. For more information, read: How to Choose the Right Print Size for Your Wall.

2 How can I work with a photographer to customize my landscape print?

Collaborate with the photographer to discuss your preferences for size, crop, and finish. They can provide recommendations based on their artistic vision and your collection’s needs.

3 What finish should I select for my fine art print?

The finish you choose depends on your aesthetic preferences and the environment in which the print will be displayed. Matte finishes provide a softer, more subtle look, while glossy and acrylic finishes offer vibrant, high-contrast colors.

4 Is it possible to commission a unique crop for my space?

Yes, photographers may offer custom cropping options to suit your space. Collaborate with the photographer to ensure the crop enhances the composition and fits your display area.

5 How should I frame my landscape print?

The framing style should complement both the artwork and the space where it will be displayed. Traditional frames work well in formal settings, while floating frames or frameless options offer a more modern look.