It seems like a good idea that a fine art photograph makes a good present (Christmas, birthday, wedding, anniversary, or special occasion). But it may not be a good idea without qualifications. Why not?
- Most people (except young people just starting their adult lives) don’t have vacant wall space. If you give them a medium-size or large photograph as a present, they may have no wall space to hang it.
- Unless you put a frame around it, the recipient may never use it. Framing is expensive.
- Art is enjoyed according to taste, which is very personal. The recipient may not appreciate your photographic art.
A photograph that answers the above concerns, however, may be an appropriate gift. And a small metal print answers such concerns.
- It’s small. People can always find a place to hang a small print.
- It doesn’t need a frame. Thus, it can be less expensive than a framed paper print.
- If the recipient doesn’t like it, it’s not a lot of wasted money.
A photograph that you purposely take to be a small photograph (rather than just any photography you shrink down) can be a great photograph. Small is not necessarily lower quality.
Accordingly, giving a fine art photograph as a present isn’t inherently a bad idea. It’s just an idea that requires a little common sense.
Pagosa Springs Photography Club 