Our photo exhibition solutions for small budgets
Our photo exhibition solutions for small budgets
Whether you’re a student, a beginner or even an experienced photographer, organising an exhibition can be quite costly if it isn’t funded by a third party or the venue itself. Did you know there are more cost-effective solutions that can help reduce production costs whilst ensuring your exhibition project is a success? In this new article, we present our low-cost solutions, without compromising on quality.
A few key points:
• Choose medium-sized print formats (around 30 x 40 cm is sufficient for an exhibition). This offers several advantages: reduced production costs, easier transport, and simpler storage, which makes it easier to move your exhibition to other venues. Moving exhibitions around also represents a saving in the long term.
• Opting for prints of the same size allows you to benefit from our volume discounts from the second print onwards.
• Run a simulation of your project on our Picto Online platform to establish the overall budget for your exhibition and guide you towards the best choices.
■ Silver halide printing from a digital file
This is the process that guarantees you the best value for money. Using your digital files, you can produce genuine silver halide prints, in colour or black and white. Compared to an inkjet print, it is half the price to produce whilst retaining the unique finish of a traditional print.
The 30 x 40 cm print is available for €7.99*.
If you work with film photography, you will need to scan your negatives. If you don’t have the equipment, our Picto Diderot branch offers rental solutions for low-cost scanning, whilst keeping control in your hands.
For students or those on a tighter budget, consider our small-format print solutions on satin RC paper (ideal for exhibitions) or glossy paper. These prints, also produced using the silver-digital process, are available from €3.74* for a 30 x 40 cm size.
The ‘Bleed’ option for mounting allows you to have a bespoke print with a technical margin around the image for easier handling should you wish to mount or frame it yourself.
■ Ready to frame
If you already have a standard-sized (30 x 40 cm, etc.) removable frame, such as those in the Nielsen range (Apollo, Alu C2 and Alpha), you can insert a print with its “Ready to Frame” finish. You can also display your artwork directly with its plastic protective cover.
■ Ready-to-use frames
The more standard formats you choose, the more you’ll save. For an exhibition, it’s also necessary to protect your prints whilst having a hanging solution. The most economical solution is the ready-to-use frame. The Nielsen range offers the Apollo wooden frame, available in three colours: white, black or natural wood.
Expect to pay €43.66* for a 30 x 40 cm digital silver print with frame. What’s more, these frames can be reused for the same prints or for new works.
A slightly cheaper alternative is mounting on foam board. For the same size, expect to pay €38.18*. Foam board is very light but fragile, making it suitable only for temporary or short-term exhibitions. Its shorter lifespan can complicate the movement of the exhibition.
It is also possible to use frameless hanging solutions, such as magnets, clips or pins. However, the prints are then more exposed to damage, even if unintentional, which may prevent their reuse for other exhibitions.
Remember to protect your works during transport and storage, using bubble wrap and reinforced corner protectors. This will extend the lifespan of your exhibition and make it easier to move it between different venues.
Did you know?
You can also apply for grants from local cultural organisations (local council, county council or regional authority) to help fund the production of your exhibitions.
Students and members of certain photography associations may be eligible for preferential rates.
See the list of partner schools and associations.
* All prices include VAT and are valid for the month of March 2026.
Photos © Flaminia Reposi
