Fine Art Prints vs Original Paintings: What’s the Difference?

If you’ve ever browsed an artist’s website or gallery and wondered “What’s the actual difference between a fine art print and an original painting?” you’re not alone.

It’s one of the most common (and sensible) questions art buyers ask me. Understanding the difference helps you buy with confidence, know what you’re paying for, and choose the piece that’s right for your space, budget, and connection to the work.

This guide breaks it all down clearly, no jargon, no gatekeeping.

What Is an Original Painting?

An original painting is a one-of-a-kind artwork, created directly by the artist’s hand.

There is only one version of it in existence.

Original paintings are typically created using materials such as:

• Acrylic, oil, ink, or mixed media

• Canvas, board, or paper

• Hand-applied textures, marks, and layers

Every brushstroke, scrape, and decision happens in real time. Once it’s finished and sold, that exact piece will never exist again.

Key characteristics of an original painting:

• Completely unique (there is only one)

• Physical texture you can see and feel

• Often shows layers, depth, and surface variation

• Carries the full history of its making

• Usually higher in price due to rarity

Buying an original painting means owning a singular piece of an artist’s practice, something no one else will ever have.

What Is a Fine Art Print?

A fine art print is a high-quality reproduction of an original artwork.

The key phrase here is fine art, not all prints are created equal.

A true fine art print is produced using:

• Professional photography or scanning of the original artwork

• Archival-quality inks

• Museum-grade or fine art papers

• Careful colour correction to match the original

The goal is to faithfully capture the colours, details, and feeling of the original painting.

Key characteristics of fine art prints:

• Multiple copies of the same image exist

• Much more affordable than originals

• Flat surface (no physical paint texture)

• Ideal for gifting or starting a collection

Fine art prints make art more accessible without compromising on quality. My prints are all standard sizes and printed with a white boarder so there is space to mount in a frame without obscuring the image.

Limited Edition vs Open Edition Prints

Not all prints are created equal, so it’s important to understand editions.

What is a Limited Edition Print?

• Produced in a set number (e.g. 25, 50, 100)

• Signed and numbered by the artist

• Once sold out, no more are made

• Generally hold higher long-term value

What are Open Edition Prints?

• No fixed limit on the number produced

• More affordable

• Ideal for decorative or casual collecting

  
  

Limited editions tend to appeal to collectors, while open editions are great for everyday enjoyment.

Texture: One of the Biggest Differences

One major difference between original paintings and prints is texture.

• Original paintings often have visible brushstrokes, raised paint, marks, and layers

• Prints are flat, even when printed beautifully

If you love seeing paint move, catch the light, or reveal layers up close, originals offer something prints physically can’t.

That said, many people prefer prints for their clean finish and versatility.

Price: Why Originals Cost More

Original paintings usually cost more than fine art prints, and for good reason.

When you buy an original, you’re paying for:

• The artist’s time and expertise

• Materials and studio costs

• Years of practice and development

• Rarity and uniqueness

• The emotional and physical labour of making

Fine art prints cost less because:

• The artwork already exists

• Multiple copies can be produced

• Production costs are spread across editions

Neither is “better”, they simply serve different purposes.

Which Should You Choose?

There’s no right or wrong answer, just what works for you.

Choose an original painting if:

• You want a one-of-a-kind piece

• You value texture and surface detail

• You’re building a long-term collection

• You want a deeper connection to the artist’s process

Choose a fine art print if:

• You’re working within a budget

• You want art in multiple rooms

• You’re buying a gift

• You love a piece but missed the original

Many collectors own both, originals for special spaces, prints for everyday living.

Artist-Made Prints vs Mass-Produced Prints

This is important.

There’s a big difference between artist-produced fine art prints and mass-produced poster prints.

Artist-made prints are:

• Carefully colour-matched

• Printed on high-quality paper

• Often handled, signed, or finished by the artist

• Made in small batches

They’re closer to the original artwork, both in quality and intention.

Final Thoughts: It’s About Connection

Whether you choose an original painting or a fine art print, the most important thing is how the work makes you feel.

Art isn’t about rules or hierarchy. It’s about connection, curiosity, and living with something that resonates.

Understanding the difference simply helps you choose with confidence, and enjoy your art even more.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a fine art print and an original painting?

An original painting is a one-of-a-kind artwork made by hand, while a fine art print is a high-quality reproduction of an original. Originals are unique and often textured; prints are flat and allow the same artwork to be owned by more than one person.

Are fine art prints considered “real art”?

Yes. Fine art prints are a respected and long-established part of art practice. When produced professionally using archival materials, they are designed to last for decades and offer an accessible way to collect artwork.

How are fine art prints made?

A fine art print begins with the original artwork being professionally photographed or scanned. The image is then colour-corrected and printed using archival inks on high-quality fine art paper to ensure accuracy and longevity.

Do artists usually make their own prints?

It varies. Some artists outsource the entire process, while others are closely involved. In my case, I personally oversee every stage, from photographing the artwork to printing, trimming, and finishing each piece, nothing leaves the studio without my hands on it.

Are your prints signed and limited?

i print open edition and smaller limited editions which I sign and number. Every print, whether open or limited edition is individually printed and cut, which means slight variations naturally occur and no two are ever exactly the same.

Will a fine art print look exactly like the original painting?

The aim is to get as close as possible in colour and detail, but prints won’t replicate physical texture or raised paint. Originals have depth you can see and feel; prints capture the image and atmosphere of the work. I do my best to match the original, photographing in natural sunlight and emphasising the textures.

Why are original paintings more expensive than prints?

Original paintings reflect the full time, materials, experimentation, and labour involved in making a one-off artwork. Once an original is sold, it can never be recreated, which is why it carries a higher price.

Are fine art prints a good investment?

Fine art prints are best purchased because you love the artwork. Limited edition prints can increase in value over time, but their real value lies in making art accessible and enjoyable to live with.

How long do fine art prints last?

When printed using archival inks and papers, fine art prints can last 60–100 years or more when cared for properly and kept out of direct sunlight. See my framing page for information about protecting your art.

How do I choose between a print and an original?

If you’re drawn to texture, surface detail, and owning something truly unique, an original painting might be right for you. If you love the image, want flexibility, or are starting your collection, a fine art print is a great place to begin.

Are your prints mass-produced?

No. My prints are made in small batches, handled individually, and finished by me in the studio. This hands-on approach keeps them closely connected to the original artwork.