How to Print a Quality Portrait

A great AI render deserves a great print. This guide explains how Cardgen prints, what substrates look best for which styles, and how to avoid common printing mistakes.

By Cardgen Editorial Team  ·  Last updated 2026-04-09

Steps

1. 1

   Match the substrate to the style

   Painterly styles (Oil Painting, Impressionist, Watercolor) look best on canvas because the texture mimics real paint. Photographic styles (Photorealistic, Film Noir) look best on matte or metallic paper. Illustrated styles (Pop Art, Comic Book) look best on acrylic or glossy stock.

   

2. 2

   Pick a dignified size

   For cards, 5x7 is our recommended size. For framed prints, 8x10 is a bedside sweet spot and 16x20 is a statement piece. For canvas, 12x16 and 16x20 dominate our orders.

   

3. 3

   Choose the right finish

   Matte finish is safest for most styles — it kills glare and feels premium. Glossy works well for pop art and photorealistic. Acrylic is for statement pieces only.

   

4. 4

   Verify the shipping address

   Cardgen ships directly from our US print partner. Double-check the shipping address before placing the order — custom prints can't be rerouted mid-ship.

   

5. 5

   Unbox and hang

   When the package arrives, unbox it on a clean surface and handle the print by the edges. Canvas prints are ready to hang. Framed prints include hanging hardware. Greeting cards ship in rigid mailers.