The Most Common Printing Mistakes

And How to Avoid the “It Just Doesn’t Look Right” Moment

This happens a lot.

Someone brings in a print they ordered elsewhere, sets it down, and says,
“I don’t know… it just doesn’t look right.”

They’re usually correct.

Not because the photo is bad—it’s often a great image.
But one or two small mistakes add up fast once something is printed.

Here are the most common issues we see at French Broad Imaging in Asheville and how to avoid them.

Mistake #1: Printing a File That Was Never Meant to Be Printed

A photo can look perfect on a phone and still fall apart in print.

When a file is too small and gets enlarged, you’ll see:

• blurry detail

• jagged edges

• loss of clarity

• “softness” that wasn’t obvious on screen

This is especially common with images downloaded from social media, screenshots, or old texted photos.

If you want a bigger print, start with the best file you can find.

Mistake #2: Over-Editing (Especially Heavy Filters)

Editing can look dramatic on screen—but paper is less forgiving.

Things that often print poorly:

• heavy contrast

• over-sharpening

• strong clarity sliders

• trendy filters

• pushed blacks that lose detail

Print usually rewards subtlety. The goal is clean, natural detail that holds up when you’re standing in front of it.

Mistake #3: Choosing the Wrong Paper or Finish

“Glossy” and “matte” aren’t just preferences—they change how the image feels.

Paper effects:

• color saturation

• contrast

• glare

• mood

• longevity

This is why we keep print samples on hand. Most people don’t realize how much the surface changes the final result until they see it. (This is why we take the time to talk with each customer when they come into the store. AND we have a sample display of every paper so you can touch it and see it in action.

Mistake #4: Skipping a Proof

Everyone wants the final print fast.

But skipping a quick proof is one of the easiest ways to end up disappointed.

A small proof lets you:

• verify color

• see shadow detail

• confirm sharpness

• make adjustments before you commit

This saves money and frustration—especially for important prints. This is recommended more for the artist or professional photographer who is selling their artwork.

Mistake #5: Treating Important Photos Like Everyday Prints

Not every photo needs professional printing.

But the ones that matter most usually do:

• family portraits

• wedding photos

• memorial images

• artwork

• restoration projects

• prints you plan to frame and keep

Those deserve better than “good enough.”

The Good News

These mistakes are easy to avoid once you know what to look for.

That’s why we take time to:

• check your file

• help you choose the right paper

• guide simple adjustments

• and make sure you don’t waste money on a print that won’t hold up

📍 French Broad Imaging is inside Texture Gallery at 1516 Patton Ave, Asheville, NC.
Bring your photo in — we’ll help you choose the best approach.

Up Next: When professional printing is worth it (and when it isn’t).