Photographic and Art Prints: Everything You Need to Know Before Buying

In 2026, there are more prints than ever to choose from—but not all of them are the same.

By the end of this article, you’ll see exactly how photographic prints and art prints differ, including:

• Color and contrast
• Paper type and texture
• Longevity and durability

We looked closely at real prints and compared them side by side, so you’ll get the info you need to pick the one that’s right for your walls or collection.

Let’s Start with Photographic Prints

Photographic prints—sometimes called photo prints—are what most of us think of when we picture printed photos. These are the glossy, vibrant images you see in magazines, photography portfolios, or even framed snapshots in someone’s living room.

They’re printed on resin-coated paper, which is smooth and often comes in glossy, luster, or metallic finishes. This paper type is designed to make colors pop, details sharp, and contrasts dramatic.

One of the biggest perks of photographic prints is their wow factor. Colors look vivid, blacks are deep, and the image just jumps off the paper.

They’re also pretty affordable, which makes them perfect for casual collectors or anyone looking to fill a space with visually striking images without spending a fortune.

But here’s the catch: some photographic prints, especially those made with dye-based inks, can fade over time if exposed to sunlight or humidity.

Prints made with pigment-based inks last much longer, so while many are perfect for short-term display or portfolios, some can also be enjoyed for decades.

Quick Snapshot of Photographic Prints:

Feature	Details
Paper	Smooth, resin-coated, glossy or luster finish
Look	Bright, bold colors with high contrast
Durability	Depends on ink and paper type; some pigment-based prints last decades
Best For	Casual collectors, photographers showing portfolios, high-impact displays
Cost	Usually affordable

So, if your main goal is visual impact right now and cost matters, photographic prints are a solid pick.

What Makes an Art Print Different?

Art prints—often made as Giclée prints—take things to the next level. Giclée prints are a premium type of art print that replicate original artwork in stunning detail, though not all art prints are Giclée.

The paper is thick, often made from 100% cotton or other natural fibers, and usually has a textured, matte finish. That texture isn’t just for looks; it gives the piece a real tactile quality that feels like you’re holding a work of fine art.

The inks used in art prints are archival, designed to last decades or more without significant fading.

Giclée printing reproduces subtle details, fine color gradations, and even the warmth of the original piece.

Quick Snapshot of Art Prints:

Feature	Details
Paper	Archival, heavyweight, textured, often 100% cotton
Look	Rich, nuanced colors with deep contrast and subtle warmth
Durability	Can last 100+ years with archival pigment inks
Best For	Serious collectors, limited editions, gallery display, reproductions
Cost	Higher than photographic prints, but worth it for quality and longevity

Art prints are all about permanence. They’re the kind of print you hang in your collection knowing it will still look amazing decades from now.

The Major Differences, Simplified

If you’re scanning a gallery wall or browsing online, it can be tricky to spot the difference. Here’s a breakdown of what really sets photographic and art prints apart:

1. Paper Quality

• Photographic prints = smooth, resin-coated, glossy or luster.
• Art prints = thick, textured, archival paper made from natural fibers.

2. Color and Detail

• Photographic prints = bright, punchy, high-contrast.
• Art prints = subtle, nuanced, faithful to the original artwork.

3. Longevity

• Photographic prints = lifespan depends on ink and paper type; high-quality versions with pigment inks can last for many decades with proper care.
• Art prints = when produced with archival inks and high-quality paper, they can last well over 100 years with proper care.

4. Purpose

• Photographic prints = quick visual impact, everyday display, portfolios.
• Art prints = long-term investment, gallery display, collectible quality.

5. Cost

• Photographic prints = budget-friendly.
• Art prints = premium price, but the value lasts.

6. Feel

• Photographic prints = smooth, sometimes slick or glossy.
• Art prints = substantial, textured, authentic, and high-quality tactile feel.

Feature	Photographic Prints	Art Prints
Paper	Smooth and shiny—colors pop!	Thick, textured, feels like real artwork
Color & Detail	Bright and bold	Subtle, rich, true to the original
Longevity	Can fade over time; pigment inks last decades	Built to last 100+ years with archival inks
Purpose	Eye-catching now, great for portfolios	Long-term investment, perfect for galleries
Cost	Friendly on the wallet	Higher price, but worth it for lasting quality
Feel	Slick or glossy	Authentic, tactile, satisfying to touch

How to Decide Which is Right for You

Collectors often ask: “Should I go for a photo print or an art print?” The answer depends on what you want out of the piece.

Ask yourself a few questions:

• Why am I buying this print? For immediate enjoyment or as a long-term investment? Photographic prints work great for the former. Art prints are best for the latter.
• How much am I willing to spend? Photographic prints are cheaper, while art prints carry a higher price tag for quality and longevity.
• Where will I display it? If your space gets a lot of sunlight or fluctuating humidity, an art print is a safer bet.
• Do I care about collectibility? Limited edition art prints tend to hold value better than photographic prints.

Knowing the answers to these questions can save you from buyer’s remorse down the line.

Common Myths About Prints

Even experienced collectors sometimes mix these up.

Let’s clear things up:

1. Photographic prints are “bad” prints. Not true. They’re just designed for a different purpose: sharp, bright images for everyday enjoyment.
2. All art prints are insanely expensive. Costs vary depending on paper, ink, and edition size. You can find high-quality pieces that aren’t prohibitively expensive.
3. Paper doesn’t matter. The type of paper affects look, feel, and longevity—so it matters a lot.

Quick Tips for Collectors

• Check the paper type. Look for archival or cotton-based paper for long-lasting art prints.
• Ask about ink. Pigment-based inks last longer and maintain color fidelity.
• Consider framing and display. Even the best print can fade if not protected from light and humidity.
• Think long-term. A slightly higher upfront cost for an art print pays off over decades.

Bottom Line

Here’s the takeaway:

• If you’re buying a print for short-term display, a photographic print delivers eye-catching color and crisp images at an affordable price.
• But if you’re collecting for long-term enjoyment, gallery display, or investment, an art print is the way to go. The thicker paper, archival inks, and nuanced color fidelity make it a piece you can proudly display and pass down for generations.

Print Type	Best For	Cost
Photographic	Casual collectors, home displays, portfolios	Affordable, fun now
Art	Serious collectors, limited editions, gallery walls	Pricier, but built to last

Both types of prints have their place. Knowing the differences ensures that what you buy aligns with your goals, whether that’s visual punch today or lasting value tomorrow.

When in doubt, remember: photographic prints impress now, art prints last forever. For collectors serious about their walls, the choice is clear.