Best print type for abstracts

[SamJT]

Hi,

I've got absolutely zero experience of printing any photos whatsoever. My dad however is a graphic designer with quite a lot of experience in printing his photos on canvas so I know about where to get them done and which types are available. I was just wondering if there's a general consensus on what type of print an abstract photo would look best as? Gloss/matte/canvas etc.? I guess I'm looking for it to look as bold and bright as possible.

Here's what I was thinking about getting printed...

http://m.flickr.com/photos/80011176@N04/12565049773/ sorry for the possible broken link, I know what I'm doing on a computer but no idea on my phone haha

Cheers,
Sam

 

[Chappers]

I don't think there is a simple answer to this. It does depend on the type of image you are printing and the result you are after.
Gloss media gives you the most impact. More saturation and colour. Matte papers are more subtle, have less saturation and can suit more pastel images ( These are generalisations ). Prints on photographic paper tend to have a smaller colour gamut than modern ink jet media, so bear this in mind.

Also bear in mind how these are going to be displayed. Glossy surfaces have a mirror effect and can reflect surroundings which may detract from the image. Lighting can also have an effect. I'd suggest you get a few sample prints made on different types of paper and decide yourself which looks better.

 

[SamJT]

Thanks for the quick reply. I have no idea what a gamut is and the effect that would have on a print, is that in relation to a sort of resolution or how detailed it is?

I have a couple of sample packs from different print companies, is it possible to get a cheap sample of the actual image I want printed?

 

[LongLensPhotography]

Thanks for the quick reply. I have no idea what a gamut is and the effect that would have on a print, is that in relation to a sort of resolution or how detailed it is?

I have a couple of sample packs from different print companies, is it possible to get a cheap sample of the actual image I want printed?

6x4" will be about as cheap as it gets... It is worth to try it out. Type of paper or medium will depend on your interior design. I can imagine the image on both textured matt paper as well as metallic shiny surface both creating different impression. I wouldn't bother with regular "C-type" prints unless budged is your primary concern

 

[Chappers]

Gamut simply relates to the range of colours that a system can handle. Some can reproduce quite saturated colours whilst others are more muted. As always the bigger the better