Fine Art Photography
Explore the world of fine art photography with Mark Zissis, where artistry meets visual storytelling. Our fine art photography collection showcases a diverse range of evocative and thought-provoking images, meticulously crafted to captivate and inspire. Each fine art photograph is a masterpiece, blending technical precision with creative expression to transform ordinary moments into extraordinary works of art. Perfect for discerning collectors and art enthusiasts, our fine art photography pieces add a touch of sophistication and depth to any space. Discover the timeless elegance and artistic vision behind our fine art photography collection and elevate your decor with pieces that speak to the soul.
1. Fine Art Photography Lab Printing
a. The Process & Materials
Fine art photography lab printing is all about producing archival, museum-quality prints. Many high-end photographers—including Mark Zissis—use specialized processes to ensure longevity and unmatched visual quality. For example, Mark’s prints are produced using a Silver Halide Metallic process. This method offers a glossy, high-definition finish where colors pop, ensuring the image remains vibrant for decades. The print is crafted to be non-fading and designed to last up to 75 years, making it a true work of art worthy of gallery display.
b. Quality and Archival Standards
- Archival Quality: The use of silver halide and metallic surfaces results in images that maintain their depth and contrast over time.
- Consistency: Lab-controlled printing environments ensure that every print adheres to strict standards for color accuracy and detail.
2. Acrylic Face Mounting: The Modern Framing Solution
Acrylic face mounting (also called face mounting) involves bonding the print directly to a clear acrylic sheet. This technique is celebrated for its clean, modern presentation and durability.
a. The Process
- Adhesive Application: A specialized, optically clear adhesive is applied evenly to the face of the print. This ensures that when the image is bonded to the acrylic, no bubbles or distortions occur.
- Bonding to Acrylic: The print is then affixed to a high-quality acrylic substrate (often 6mm high-lustre Shinkolite Glass Perspex, as used by Mark Zissis Photography). The acrylic not only enhances color and detail but also adds a sense of depth to the image.
- Backing and Protection: Once mounted, the print is back-mounted to a support material like HIPS (High Impact Polystyrene) and protected with heavy-duty, museum-quality UV-protected acrylic. This step is crucial for shielding the artwork from UV rays, dust, and moisture.
- Floating Effect: Aluminium U channels are often attached at the back, creating a gap between the wall and the artwork. This “floating” effect gives a contemporary, almost window-like appearance.
b. Advantages of Acrylic Mounting
- Enhanced Visual Impact: The glossy, reflective nature of acrylic intensifies color saturation and contrast.
- Protection: The process protects against environmental factors that can degrade traditional prints over time.
- Modern Aesthetic: Without the distractions of a conventional frame, the image appears to float—ideal for modern interiors.
c. Diasec and Similar Processes
While Diasec is a trademarked method for face mounting (involving a liquid gel adhesive that bonds the image to acrylic), many labs and photographers now use surrogate processes that achieve similar results. Mark Zissis Photography’s custom process is tailored to ensure optimal clarity, vibrancy, and longevity.
“Acrylic mounting, also known as face mounting, is a process where a print is adhered to a clear acrylic sheet using an optically clear adhesive, resulting in a modern, floating appearance.”
3. Mark Zissis Photography’s Approach
Mark Zissis is an award-winning landscape photographer whose work is celebrated for its striking detail and impeccable presentation. Here’s how his process integrates fine art printing with acrylic face mounting:
a. Custom Acrylic Mounting
- Materials: Mark uses premium 6mm high-lustre Shinkolite Glass Perspex combined with diamond-polished bevelled edges to create a sophisticated, three-dimensional frame around each image.
- Mounting Technique: The image is carefully face mounted onto the acrylic using a specialized clear adhesive. Once mounted, it’s backed with HIPS and a layer of heavy-duty UV-protected acrylic is applied. This ensures the print remains free from environmental damage while enhancing its visual depth.
- Installation: Custom aluminium U channels allow the mounted print to “float” off the wall by approximately 20mm, providing a clean, contemporary aesthetic ideal for both private collections and commercial spaces.
“Mark’s images are face-mounted on solid acrylic with diamond-polished beveled edges, back-mounted to HIPS, and protected with museum-quality UV acrylic to ensure longevity.”
b. Finishing Touches and Customer Experience
- Custom Framing Solutions: Mark Zissis Photography not only focuses on the print quality but also on how the work is displayed. The custom mounting solutions—such as standoff bolts or French cleats—ensure that the artwork is hung safely and looks impeccable.
- Educational Resources: Mark’s FAQ sections and behind-the-scenes details on his website offer guidance on how to hang, maintain, and care for these pieces, ensuring that collectors know how to preserve their investment.
4. Benefits and Maintenance
a. Enhanced Visual Appeal and Durability
- Visual Impact: The acrylic enhances the print’s colors, contrast, and clarity, making images appear more lifelike and dynamic.
- Protection: The process acts as a shield against UV rays, dust, and moisture, which is particularly important for long-term preservation.
b. Easy Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft, non-abrasive cloth with a mild soap solution. Avoid harsh chemicals that might scratch the acrylic surface.
- Installation: The integrated mounting hardware (like aluminium rails or standoff bolts) ensures easy and secure installation.
“The smooth acrylic surface is easy to clean and maintain, requiring simple dusting or wiping with a soft cloth.”
Conclusion
The fusion of fine art photography lab printing with acrylic face mounting results in artworks that are not only visually captivating but also built to last. Mark Zissis Photography exemplifies this synergy by employing high-end printing techniques and innovative mounting methods to create limited edition prints that stand the test of time. Whether you are a collector or a design enthusiast, understanding these processes helps you appreciate the craftsmanship behind every piece of fine art photography.
For more detailed insights or to view Mark Zissis’s portfolio, visit his website or social media pages.