With digital photography, our images are often confined to the screens of our devices, phones and computer screens, so the practice of printing photos has been becoming far less common. To many, printing may seem a thing of the past or even unnecessary. However, there’s a compelling case for photographers, beginners, amateurs and professionals to rethink the importance of printing. Not only does printing give your images a physical presence, but it also has the potential to elevate your skills and deepen your connection with your photography.

Here’s why printing your photos could make you a better photographer.

Why You Should Print Your Photos by Nigel Thomas

1. Better Understanding of Image Quality

When you print your photos, especially at larger sizes, you become far more aware of the actual image quality. Digital screens can mask imperfections, especially when viewed small on phones, but prints reveal every detail; the good and bad. Issues like poor focus, noise, lack of detail, or incorrect exposure become more apparent, pushing you to be more meticulous in your shooting and editing process. Over time, this will enhance your attention to detail which will naturally lead to better images and better prints.

2. Pre-Visualisation

Knowing that an image may be printed can focus your mind to think more critically before you press the shutter. You begin to see in your mind’s eye the final product, considering aspects like composition, lighting, and how the colours will appear on paper. This visualisation process sharpens your attention and encourages you to be more deliberate with each shot, leading to more intentional and impactful photography.

3. Post-Processing Skills & Getting Ready To Print

The transition from digital image to print is not always seamless. Colours, contrast, and brightness often appear differently in print than they do on a monitor. To achieve the desired outcome, i.e. accurate colours and brightness, you need to ensure you have a calibrated monitor, work in the desired colour space for optimum range in tones of colours, and also appreciate the difference in mediums. A back lit monitor which transmits light, compared to your paper choice which only reflects light. Your viewing light also needs to be constant and preferably daylight balanced. As you gain a deeper understanding of colour management, tonal adjustments etc., you will appreciate the need to follow a consistent and accurate process to achieve consistent results that you’ll be extremely happy with.

4. A Real Connection to Your Work

Everywhere we look we see digital images: on your phone, your computer, digital advertising screens… but holding a printed photograph in your hands provides a unique, special connection to your work. The process of printing turns your images into real physical objects that you can touch, frame, and display. This often leads to a deeper appreciation of your photography, as you can see and feel the results of your finished prints. It’s a reminder that your work has substance and presence beyond just that of a digital file.

5. Assessing and Reflecting on Your Portfolio

Printing encourages you to assess your work more carefully. Unlike digital collections, which can accommodate thousands of images, printed portfolios require selectivity. The process of choosing the best of your work for print helps you to critically evaluate your photography, identifying strengths and areas for improvement. It’s a valuable tool in self-reflection that can help you grow and mature as a photographer.

6. Longevity and Legacy

Printed photos have a special permanence about them. While hard drives could fail and technology is always evolving, prints can endure for generations when properly cared for. By printing your photos, you’re not only preserving your work for yourself but also creating a legacy that can be passed down. This understanding of photography as a lasting art form can inspire you to create images that are not just momentarily pleasing but become timeless beautifully crafted pieces of art.

7. The Joy of Sharing

There’s something inherently special about sharing a printed photograph. Whether it’s a gift, a framed print for a loved one, or a gallery exhibition, printed images have a personal touch that digital photos often lack. Sharing your work in print form can also lead to new opportunities, such as selling prints or getting your work featured in magazines, books or galleries. The joy and recognition that come from sharing printed photos can be a powerful motivator, driving you to further improve and importantly enjoy your photography.

8. A Renewed Perspective

I firmly believe that printing can provide a fresh perspective on your photography. Seeing your images in a different format, away from the screen, allows you to appreciate them in new ways. You may notice details or emotions in a printed photo that you overlooked before. This renewed perspective can rekindle your passion for photography, inspiring new ideas and approaches.

Nigel’s Final Thoughts

Printing your photos is more than just a way to display your work, it’s a practice that can significantly enhance your skills as a photographer. From improving your attention to detail, to understanding the requirements for a colour managed system and process to developing a deeper connection with your art, the benefits of printing are many. So, the next time you finish editing a photo, don’t just leave it on your hard drive, give printing a go. Just print it. You might find that the experience not only brings your photos to life but also makes you a better photographer in the process.

About Nigel Thomas

Nigel Thomas is a landscape photographer and passionate mental health advocate whose journey with photography has not only led to breathtaking imagery but also a deeply therapeutic escape. Known for his evocative coastal scenes and mastery of long exposure techniques, Nigel’s work captures the serene beauty of nature while reflecting his personal quest for balance and mindfulness.

Nigel discovered landscape photography as a creative outlet during a challenging period in his life, where the act of exploring and photographing the landscape became a powerful form of therapy. He soon gravitated toward coastal landscapes, drawn by the interplay of water, light, and motion that inspires both calm and introspection. His long exposure images, with their ethereal qualities, invite viewers to pause and connect with the tranquility of the natural world.

In 2024, Nigel held his first major exhibition, showcasing over 100 prints. This milestone not only affirmed his skill as a photographer but also highlighted his dedication to the craft, from capturing the perfect shot to producing high-quality prints that bring his images to life. For Nigel, printing is the final, transformative step in his creative process, a way to physically share the emotional depth of his work.

Nigel’s experience and enthusiasm for printing have led him to become an envoy for PermaJet, a leading name in professional printing media. As an ambassador, he actively shares his knowledge of the complete colour management process, ensuring that photographers of all levels can achieve their best quality results. He travels to camera clubs across the UK, I both in person and via Zoom, inspiring others to take pride in finishing their photography journey with a beautifully crafted print.

Nigel Thomas is more than a photographer, he is an advocate for photography’s power to heal, connect, and inspire. Through his dedication and his willingness to share his journey, he continues to leave a meaningful impact on both the photographic community and the lives of those who engage with his work.

Please get in touch with Nigel if you would like individual or group support with your printing. Bookings are now being taken for his camera club presentation “How To Achieve The Perfect Print”. To make a booking please get in touch via email – nigetom@btinternet.com