How I do it.

It has been a struggle getting to where I am and figuring out how to become an established artist. Efficiency is one of my biggest appreciations, and finding the right path has been far from it! For example, "selling prints," was the hardest part for me. Everyone wanted reproductions because they are affordable and I didn't know how to get them made, or if "print" was the proper terminology, how to get a great image, where to print them from, what sort of printing to do... and the questions went on and on. The proper terminology is "reproduction," but people call them prints anyway. I'm flexible, so I'll go with the flow too and call them prints. 

How to get the image

 There are a lot of websites that show you step by step how to set up your camera and painting to get the image you want. I start out with "How to photograph paintings". 

Printing

I was referred to Color Art Printing in Anchorage, so I use them, plus I like working with Deanna. To get what you want, you need to question the workers about the best printing methods and types of paper stock to use. The first time I used them the minimum order to get the best deal was about 1,000 prints, which is a lot of inventory to hold onto. With digital printing, you can order smaller quantities and I usually order 25-100 at a time. Typically I have them printed on standard sized paper so it's easier to find packaging and frames for the image if the customer decides not to have the reproduction professionally framed and matted.

I have also been looking into other sites for doing it all online, uploading my own image, but haven't found anything that I've been willing to invest in yet. I'll post when I do. 

Packaging

I order clear bags from clearbags.com. They don't offer free shipping, but I haven't found a place who has all the sizes I need yet. 

Selling

I made a personal choice not to do limited edition printing yet. I print as many as I want and sell them at a lower price. I do this because the message of what I paint is more important to me than the value of the collecting status. Collectors are then left with the option of purchasing originals. My paper prints sell for $25-$45. The largest paper size I sell is 12x18" and 10x20". Giclee prints on canvas are $300-$500. Those sizes range from 20x16"-20x48".