FAQ – Frequently asked questions

A FineArt print is the highest form of image reproduction. Unlike standard photo prints, we use:

- Premium papers from Hahnemühle, Canson, Ilford and Awagami
- Epson printers with pigment inks (archival quality)
- Professional color management

The lifespan is approximately 75 years under ideal conditions - significantly longer than normal prints (10-20 years).

FineArt prints are suitable for everyone:

- Photographers and artists for exhibitions
- Galleries for sales
- Private individuals for special memories
- Interior designers and advertising agencies

Many customers start with a favorite photo as a test and are thrilled with the quality.

Modern smartphones (from around 2018) have sufficient resolution for prints up to A3. Important:

- Use original file
- Good lighting when photographing
- No digital zoom

Feel free to send us your file in advance - we check for free whether it is suitable and advise you.

The process in 4 steps:

1. Send file - Via email, WeTransfer, Dropbox, USB stick or upload
2. File check - We check resolution and color space (free)
3. Consultation - We recommend suitable paper and format
4. Print & Shipping - Production and secure shipping

If you have questions or uncertainties, we will contact you. We return USB sticks with the order.

We are happy to advise you on your choice of paper free of charge.

We have over 60 different types of paper available—from matte to glossy, from smooth to textured. The choice depends on your motif and your ideas. However, matte papers are generally well suited for nature motifs, glossy papers for black and white prints, and Japanese papers for Japanese motifs.

Send us your image and describe how you want the result to look. We will then recommend the appropriate papers.

Optimal:
- TIFF (uncompressed)
- JPEG with highest quality (lowest possible compression)

Color space:
- With embedded RGB profile (AdobeRGB, ProPhoto RGB or sRGB)
- Without profile we assume sRGB
- No CMYK profiles - these are not suitable

Color depth: Up to 16 bit possible

If you have questions about preparation, we are happy to advise you.

We print at 300 DPI for optimal quality. Rule of thumb:

- A4 (21x30cm): at least 2500x1800 pixels
- A3 (30x42cm): at least 3500x2500 pixels
- A2 (42x60cm): at least 5000x3500 pixels

Unsure? Send us the file - we check it for free and tell you what is possible.

This is normal! Reasons:

- Monitors emit light (RGB), prints reflect (pigments)
- Most monitors show colors that are too strong and too bright
- Paper has a natural base tone

What you can do:
- Order a proof print
- Have monitor calibrated
- Ask us for advice

We print "as seen" - but what is "seen" depends on your monitor.

We offer proof prints:

Option 1: Strip-shaped section from the image
Option 2: Reduced image up to ca. 20 x 30 cm (not for handmade papers)

The proof print is made on the same paper as the planned large print. Shipping is by letter mail in an envelope (for viewing/assessment only).

Perfect for deciding: Which paper suits my motif best?

Standard: All prints receive a narrow, unprinted border (0.5-1.5cm). This facilitates handling and framing.

Borderless possible: On request we cut to exact size. Please note:
- Images are cut by hand (+/- 1-2mm tolerance)
- Cutting in the printed area may cause color chipping

Defined white border: If your image already has a white border, we naturally cut to size.

We perform a free file check (color space, resolution). If there are any uncertainties, we will contact you.

Changes only on request:
If corrections are necessary (retouching, brightness, sharpening, sensor spots, etc.), we discuss this beforehand.

Important: We only offer these edits together with a print.

Yes! Most of our papers are natural papers made from cotton, hemp or similar.

During production small fibers or inclusions may remain in the paper - this is typical for natural products and is part of the character of these high-quality papers.

These inclusions:
- Vary in size and color
- Often only become visible after printing
- Are not a defect or error
- Cannot be avoided

Of course, we try to minimize this!

Prints from approx. 30x45cm are printed from roll stock. A curl is normal and not a defect.

What we do:
- For flat shipping we \"de-roll\" the images (if possible)
- Some papers (e.g. Torchon, William Turner) must not be counter-rolled

Recommendation:
- Flat storage before framing
- If necessary with weights
- After framing the curl disappears

Note: With fluctuations in humidity/temperature, curling can reoccur - this is normal for natural papers.

Yes! We specialize in individual solutions:

Double-sided printing:
- On suitable media (e.g. Hahnemühle Photo Rag Duo)
- Up to A2 format
- Perfect for books, portfolios

Torn edges:
- On matte papers from 270g/m²
- Hand-torn with straightedge
- Up to 70x100cm possible

FineArt greeting cards, borderless printing, custom formats
Present us your idea - we will implement it!

We have been a small FineArt studio in Potsdam with a passion for quality since 2005.

Our customers:
- End consumers & photographers
- Artists & galleries
- Interior designers & advertising agencies
- Worldwide

Our certifications:
- Hahnemühle Certified Studio
- Canson Certified Print Lab
- Epson Digigraphie (for special orders)

Visits possible: You are welcome to come to Potsdam, look at papers and get advice. Please arrange appointment in advance as we cannot receive visitors during production.