Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the best medium for the photos?

You really can't go wrong with "Exhibit Mount - High Gloss." This is my default choice. It's a shiny metal print that comes with all of the hardware you need to mount the photo on the wall already attached, so you don't need a frame -- all you need is a nail. The mount sets the image a few inches off the wall and looks great – I have several of these in my home. This will be a bit more expensive than just buying a print but saves you the time and effort of framing it yourself. 

For some images, "Exhibit Mount - Sheer Gloss" is a great choice. In this case, the metal shows through a bit or — in places where there is a lot of white in the image — it shows through a lot. It really gives a special sheen.

 For simple prints, I've given you the option of a metallic photo paper that adds a little extra "ooph" to the photos. 

Which is the best style for the photos?

As I mention above, if you go with one of the Exhibit Mount prints, you don't need any mounting Style – it's a beautiful print and mount all in one. If you prefer a frame, order a print in the size you want and then select from the framing and mounting options under the Style menu. I wouldn't recommend just ordering a print without some mounting Style, as I think you'll be disappointed, unless you plan to have it framed yourself. But if frames and Exhibit Mounts exceed your budget, Gator Foam or Styrene mounting will keep the print flat and make it easy to put on a wall. 

Will the prints fade over time?

If the print is regularly exposed to direct sunlight, it will fade over time no matter what surface it's printed on, so please find a spot that doesn't get direct light. As for the specific materials, here is what Bay Photo, the lab that outputs the prints, says ...

• Exhibit Mounts: The styrene that the metal prints are adhered to is acid free.
• Kodak Endura Metallic: This paper is listed as 100 years in typical home display.
• Acrylic Prints: We use standard Premium Grade A Acrylic that is treated with UV inhibitors for protection.  

What is your shipping Policy?

When you place an order, you will have an option to choose from different shipping methods. By default, the company that will processing and shipping the order, Bay Photo, will choose the least expensive option. This is often the slowest one, though. If you'd like to get your print sooner, you can choose a speedier delivery method.

What is your Policy on Returns/Exchanges/Refunds? 

Once you place an order and it ships, the order is final. If it arrives damaged or the colors are off, we'll replace it. If that is the case, please contact me at steve@leikenphotography.com and we'll work it out. Please keep in mind that, because a computer has a backlit screen, an image will almost always look brighter on your computer screen than on a print.

How can I keep up with your new work?

I would be honored to have you join my email list and I will send you notifications on new releases. Simply scroll to the bottom of any page on the website and you should see a dialog box asking you to "Become a Member." And your email address and you're all set! If, for any reason, you can't find that box, go to the navigation bar at the top of the page and select "Contact Me" and you can send me an email.