Acrylic Photo Prints vs Canvas Prints: Which is Right for You?

Saving your memories is more than just keeping photos on your phone or computer, and print photography can be turned into beautiful displays that add character to your walls. Acrylic and canvas prints have opened up a wide array of possibilities for photography lovers and home decor enthusiasts. 

Choosing between the different types of prints can be overwhelming given how popular acrylic and canvas prints are. We will help you narrow down on the specific options by highlighting the features and benefits of each, as well as discussing ideal use cases. After reading this, we are sure you will be able to make informed decisions regarding the placement of your cherished photos, whether it is for home decor or an art piece. 

What Are Acrylic Photo Prints?

Acrylic prints are done using transparent acrylic glass whereby photographs are placed and printed behind the glass. With the recent technological advancements, high resolution images are digitally printed and their colors brought out to increase vibrancy and depth which offers an unmatched, luxurious look.

Acrylic Photos Prints’ Major Characteristics:

  • Acrylic displays your photos in an eye-catching way since its glossy exterior enriches the colors and makes them stand out. 
  • These prints are modern and sophisticated, capturing the sleekness of gallery displays. 
  • Due to scratch, moisture, and fading resistance, the prints remain dazzling for decades.

Best Use Cases for Acrylic Prints:

Acrylic prints are best suited for places with modern or minimalist design. With their reflective quality, they are best placed in bright environments where light is easily caught and enhanced. Ideal for acrylic photo prints are:

  • Bold and professional vibes in living or hallways. 
  • Dining rooms or kitchens where a classy feel is desired. 

What are Canvas Prints?

Canvas prints consist of images that are printed on a piece of textured fabricand then placed on a solid wooden frame. They offer a relaxing more classic vibe in comparison to hand-painted pieces and are a valuable addition to any house.

Key Features of Canvas Prints:  

  • Textured Finish: The fabric’s subtle texture softens photos, achieving a timeless, understated elegance.  
  • Non-Reflective Surface: Canvas is devoid of reflection, unlike acrylic, which makes it ideal for rooms with different lighting conditions.  
  • Lightweight & Easy to Hang: Canvas Prints are light in weight and easy to hang, adding to their utility for any wall.  

Best Use Cases for Canvas Prints:  

Canvas prints radiate warmth and coziness. They easily blend with rustic, vintage, or traditional settings. Good placement for canvas prints include:  

  • Bedrooms for a soothing, personal touch  
  • Living rooms to provide a homely and welcoming feel  
  • Studios or cafes that embrace an artistic and relaxed vibe  

Key Differences Between Acrylic and Canvas Prints

Modern living room with acrylic photo print and Canvas print over the wall.

Visual Appeal  

Sleek, glossy, and vibrant acrylic prints are best suited for bold modern interiors while canvas prints are softer and have a textured finish which provides a more classic timeless look.   

If your decor leans minimalist and modern, acrylic might be the way to go. For rustic or cozy themes, canvas prints are a better match.

Durability 

Even with moisture and bright or humid areas, acrylic prints withstand scratches and fading. Canvas prints are highly durable as well but may stretch or get warped over time in less-than-ideal conditions, which makes them need some extra care.  

If you’re displaying a photo in your kitchen or bathroom where humidity is higher and gets steamy, acrylic prints would be better.  

Installation and Weight  

As canvas prints are lightweight, they are easy to hang and remove. Acrylic prints, being dense, can be heavier and need wall mounts.  

When choosing between the two, keep in mind the strain of your wall and the size of your print.  

Cost  

Due to their premium materials, construction, and workmanship, acrylic prints tend to be pricier, while canvas prints are more budget friendly. However canvas prints provide excellent quality, making them easily accessible for collection or gallery walls.

When to Choose Acrylic Prints

Choose acrylic prints when:  

  • You want to display high resolution photographs of landscapes, cityscapes, or any abstract art.  
  • You appreciate modern sleek gallery displays.   
  • The room has contemporary decor and abundant natural light that would beautify the print’s reflectiveness.   
  • You desire to boldly stand out and make a statement.    

When to Choose Canvas Prints  

Go to canvas prints when:  

  • You want a cosier, softer classic look to accent a vintage or rustic style.  
  • You love displaying family portraits, nature photography, or artistic illustrations.  
  • You’re decorating on a budget, while still ensuring high-quality personalized decor for customized spaces.  
  • The space has non-reflective variable lighting surfaces that are more effective.  

Pro Tips for Choosing the Right Photo Display  

Mix and Match

  • Adorn a gallery wall with a mixture of acrylic and canvas prints to blend modern with classic.  

Think of your maintenance options

  • Acrylic prints can easily maintain their shininess if a soft cloth is used for cleaning.  
  • Canvas prints will require gentle dusting and so should be kept away from high humidity zones.  

Match the display with the photo

  • Canvas works well for warm heartfelt moments like family photos or vintage style portraits.  
  • Acrylic works well for bold colorful images like sunsets or city skylines.

Select The Best Photo Display For You Today

The selection between acrylic photo prints and canvas prints comes down to personal preference, the room style, and how you would like the photo to be showcased. Both acrylic and canvas offer unique perspectives, and each will transform your photos into breathtaking works of art.

With all the information provided, we encourage you to take the next step to upgrade your space. Visit our collection of acrylic and canvas prints. Your memories deserve the best, and now you can find the ideal display.