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What Does “Face-Mounted” Mean for Acrylic Photo Prints?

  • Writer: Jerry Lee
    Jerry Lee
  • Sep 8
  • 2 min read
Acrylic Photo Prints

Why does the printing method matter?

When you’re investing in wall art, the way your image is produced makes all the difference in how it looks, feels, and lasts over time. With acrylic photo prints, one of the terms you’ll see is “face-mounted.” This technique isn’t just a technical detail—it’s the secret behind the striking depth, clarity, and luminous finish that makes acrylic prints a favorite for galleries, exhibitions, and collectors.


What does face-mounted mean?

“Face-mounted” refers to the process of taking a high-quality photographic print and bonding it directly behind a sheet of clear acrylic. Unlike direct-to-acrylic printing, where ink is applied straight to the surface, face-mounting preserves the full richness of the image on photo paper while adding the glossy depth of acrylic on top.


At Artbeat Studios, this means:

  • Printed on premium metallic or white photo paper with archival inks

  • Mounted behind UV-resistant cast acrylic for superior clarity and protection

  • Polished by hand so the edges shine like crystal

  • Finished with durable backers (black Sintra or clear acrylic) depending on the acrylic style you choose

The result? A vibrant, gallery-quality presentation that makes your artwork look like it’s glowing from within.


Why does face-mounting look so different?

The beauty of acrylic prints lies in how light passes through the acrylic sheet before hitting the image. This layering creates an almost three-dimensional effect, enhancing depth, sharpness, and contrast in a way that can’t be replicated with other display methods.

  • Depth – Even a ¼″ acrylic layer adds visual weight, giving the image dimension.

  • Color vibrancy – Metallic photo paper paired with acrylic amplifies saturation and contrast.

  • Polished edges – Hand-finished acrylic edges catch the light and add elegance to every angle.

  • Longevity – Face-mounted prints are protected from UV damage, scratches, and yellowing.


Artbeat Studios’ acrylic photo print

How do Artbeat Studios’ acrylic photo print styles use face-mounting?

We offer three acrylic print options, all created with the same face-mounting process, but each with its own look and feel:

  • HD Acrylic – ¼″ acrylic face with a black backer for bold contrast.

  • HD Acrylic Slims – ⅛″ acrylic face with a clear backer for a sleek, modern profile.

  • HD Acrylic 360 – ¼″ acrylic face with a clear backer, giving your art a floating, seamless effect from every angle.

Each option maintains the luminous depth of face-mounting, while offering flexibility in thickness, backing, and display style.Check out our Acrylics product page:https://www.artbeatstudios.com/products/acrylic-prints


Is face-mounted worth it compared to other methods?

For professionals and collectors, absolutely. While direct-to-acrylic printing is faster and less costly, it simply doesn’t deliver the same brilliance. Face-mounted acrylic prints are the gold standard for those who want museum-quality wall art that reflects the craftsmanship of the image itself.


Ready to experience the difference?

If you want your photos to radiate with sharpness, depth, and elegance, a face-mounted acrylic photo print is the way to go. At Artbeat Studios, we handcraft each acrylic print with precision and passion—ensuring your artwork is not only stunning but built to last for generations.


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