Metal Photo Printing

When you want your pictures to last, print them on metal stock. There are many advantages to metal prints. They are waterproof and resist scratching. The metal helps them maintain a crisp, bright color for years. You can wipe them clean easily without worries about warping, fading or rippling. Metal makes your prints strong without adding extra weight. It’s an excellent choice for any photo. Metal prints make color and detail pop. The metal gives them a glow that makes them stand out in any setting.

Printing on metal requires skill and experience. Most commercial photo printers don’t have the equipment or experience to print on metal. We have the experience and the specialized knowledge to get the job done. We use aluminum plate to create gleaming, richly colored prints that will last for years and look stunning. Metal prints make every picture special.

Available Metal Photo Paper or Stock

Aluminum Plate

Options Available for Metal Photos

Digital Proof
Small Easel Back
Variable Artwork
White Photo Mat Board

We do tons of metal photo printing, and we have streamlined the process to make it as easy as possible. Just download the metal photo template for the size and application format you need, create your artwork, and upload your design to print.

Metal Photo Specifications

If you are doing a custom size or do not see a template in the application you are using, please be sure to use the following specifications to design your metal photo.

How to Save Your Files for Large Format Printing

To ensure the best print results on posters, mounted prints, foam board, coroplast, and rigid sign products, follow these file setup guidelines when preparing your artwork:

File Setup Checklist

Resolution: 150-300 dpi at final size
Bleed: 1/8 inch (.125 inch) on all sides if artwork runs to edge
Color Mode: CMYK preferred
File Format: High-resolution PDF or JPG

Important Notes

• Files must be built at final trim size plus bleed if needed
• Extend background colors or images .125 inch past the trim edge to avoid white borders
• Keep important text at least .25 inch inside the trim edge
• Large format files are often rasterized during production - high-resolution JPG files are acceptable
• RGB files will be converted to CMYK and slight color shifts may occur
• Turn off compression or downsampling when exporting to preserve image quality

How to Export a High-Resolution File

InDesign / Illustrator

Build document at final size plus .125 inch bleed if needed
File > Export
Choose Adobe PDF (Print)
Select Press Quality or High Quality preset
Under Marks and Bleeds: Use Document Bleed Settings (.125 inch)
Click Export

Photoshop

Set document to final size at 150-300 dpi
Add .125 inch to each side if bleed is required
File > Save As
Choose JPEG (Maximum Quality) or PDF
Click Save

Why This Matters

Large format prints are viewed from a greater distance, but they still require high-resolution artwork to look sharp and professional. Proper bleed and file setup prevent unwanted white edges and production delays. If you have any questions, call 877-613-1913 - we are here to help.

Metal Photo Template Download

Using our metal photo template is simple. Just download the size and application format you need, create your artwork, and upload your design to print.