How do I handle fulfillment and shipping when I'm just starting out and don't want to deal with printing and packaging?

Start simple: find a local printer who can produce prints in the main media types (fine art paper, canvas, metal, acrylic, and wood). Order a sample pack of small prints in each medium—this entire stack might cost around $100-200. These samples are what you actually sell, not JPEGs. Show potential buyers the physical samples so they understand the difference between media types. Once you get the wholesale price from your printer, mark it up 250% for your retail price. This gives you room for negotiation and healthy margins. When you get an order, coordinate with your printer for fulfillment. Don’t worry about complex fulfillment systems at the beginning—just focus on showing the work and closing sales.

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Asked by a photographer overwhelmed by fulfillment options · Answered by Patrick · Art Business Webinar · 2026-08-03