Hanging Art Outside: Materials, Placement, and Pro Tips
Some of my favorite art installations aren't hanging in living rooms; they're transforming outdoor spaces. Covered patios, pool houses, screened porches… I've even had a client install a print underwater in their swimming pool!
Art doesn't have to stay inside four walls, under a roof. Your outdoor spaces deserve the same artistic attention as your living room. I know that when you've invested in museum-quality prints, the idea of exposing them to the elements can feel risky.
But here's what I've learned after years of installing prints outside in Hawaii's salt air and tropical sun—yes, you absolutely can display fine art photography outdoors!
Let me show you how to make it happen.
A beautiful scene along my morning walk that caught my eye with the clouds seeming to compliment this gorgeous palm by the beach path.
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Can You Really Hang Artwork Outside?
The short answer? Absolutely. But I understand the hesitation. You're probably thinking about rain, sun damage, fading, or whether your investment will hold up over time. Those are all valid concerns.
But here's the good news: hanging art outside isn't nearly as complicated as it might seem. Get a few things right, and your outdoor art will look stunning for years to come.
It comes down to a few key decisions—the right print substrate, smart placement, and some minimal maintenance.
Print Substrates: What Works Outdoors & Why
Not all print materials are created equal when it comes to hanging pictures outside. Over the years, I've tested a wide range of substrates and worked with the best fine art print labs.
Here's what I've learned about what materials actually hold up.
Metal Prints: The Clear Winner
If you're serious about photography artwork for outdoors, metal prints are your best bet. Here's why they're my top recommendation:
- Virtually indestructible: Scratch-resistant, waterproof, and built to last
- UV and fade-resistant: Colors stay vibrant for years, even in direct sunlight
- Low-glare finish: Matte-like surface works perfectly in bright outdoor spaces
- Easy maintenance: Just dust with a soft cloth or wipe with glass cleaner
- Proven durability: I've had clients install these in saunas, showers, and even fully submerged in swimming pools
Acrylic Facemounts: Beautiful, But Keep Them Covered
Acrylic facemounts are stunning. They create an almost 3D effect with museum-grade quality, and they're still pretty durable:
- UV protection: Blocks up to 99% of UV rays
- Scratch and shatter-resistant: Durable and cleans like glass
- Incredible depth and clarity: Museum-quality presentation
- Best for protected spaces: Well-covered patios, screened porches, or indoor-outdoor rooms
While acrylic can handle some outdoor conditions, it's best suited for sheltered spaces. Direct exposure to the elements isn't ideal for long-term display. If you have a fully protected outdoor area, acrylic can work, but metal is the safer choice for outdoor art.
Canvas Prints: Indoor or Very Protected Spaces Only
Canvas has a beautiful, organic feel, but it's not built for outdoor life.
- Vulnerable to moisture and humidity: Even with protective coatings
- UV damage over time: Colors will fade faster than metal or acrylic
- Requires more maintenance: Shorter lifespan outdoors
- Only for extremely protected areas: Enclosed patios or three-season rooms at most
If you're set on canvas for an outdoor space, keep it in a very well-covered area and expect to monitor it more closely.
Surfboard Art: A Unique Outdoor Option
Looking for something completely different? I also offer fine art prints on real surfboards.
- Full-size dimensions: 72" long, 24" high, 4" thick (real surfboards, not fake decor)
- Durable for outdoor use: Built to handle the elements and surfing.
- Distinctive statement piece: Three-dimensional and eye-catching
- Integrated hanging system: Ready to install
- Perfect for: Patios, pool areas, beach houses, and outdoor spaces
These bring a playful, coastal energy to outdoor spaces and are especially popular with clients looking to break away from traditional rectangular art.
The surfboard fence in Paia on the island of Maui is a classic scene. Arranging the surfboards in the sequence of the rainbow is just taking it to a whole new level!
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The Takeaway
When it comes to outdoor art, metal prints are the gold standard. They're built to handle whatever nature throws at them while maintaining their beauty and vibrancy.
If you want peace of mind and art that lasts, that's where I'd put my money.
Where to Hang Outdoor Art
One of the most exciting things about outdoor art is reimagining spaces you might not have considered before.
Your covered patio, pool house, or screened porch can become just as intentional and beautiful as any room inside your home.
Here are some of my favorite places where fine art photography really shines outdoors.
Covered Patios & Lanais
This is the most popular spot for outdoor art—and for good reason. Covered patios offer protection from direct rain and sun while still maintaining that indoor-outdoor flow.
A large landscape print can anchor your outdoor dining area or create a stunning focal point above a seating arrangement.
Pool Houses & Cabanas
Pool areas are perfect for bold, vibrant imagery. Ocean scenes, tropical landscapes, or sunset photography naturally complement the water and create a cohesive resort-like atmosphere.
One of my favorite installations? A client actually placed a metal print underwater in their swimming pool. Fully submerged. It's a perfect example of just how durable these prints can be.
Screened Porches & Three-Season Rooms
These semi-protected spaces bridge indoor and outdoor living beautifully. Because they're enclosed, you have a bit more flexibility with substrates.
Metal prints are still my top choice, but well-protected acrylic facemounts can work here too.
Commercial Spaces
Restaurants, hotels, and businesses are also discovering the impact of outdoor art.
Covered terraces, resort pool areas, and outdoor dining patios become more memorable and Instagram-worthy (helping to drive more customers to your business) with the right photography.
Types of Photography That Look Great Outdoors
Choosing the right image for your outdoor space is just as important as choosing the right substrate. The goal is to choose imagery that feels natural, intentional, and enhances the mood you're trying to create.
Landscape & Nature Photography: A Natural Fit
There's a reason landscape photography works so beautifully in outdoor spaces. It creates a visual conversation with the natural world around it.
An ocean scene on a coastal patio, a forest photograph near your garden, or a mountain landscape in a mountain home...these choices feel organic and cohesive.
When your art echoes the environment, it doesn't compete for attention. Instead, it amplifies the beauty that's already there. It's like bringing the outside in—or in this case, extending the inside out.
One of the most beautiful scenes is the islands looking down the Na Pali Coast as the waves collide at sunset. This sunset was very golden and I also captured this with a medium format camera for the best quality
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Color & Mood: Setting the Atmosphere
Think about the feeling you want your outdoor space to evoke:
- Serene and calming – Soft blues, gentle waves, misty forests, or pastel sunsets create a peaceful retreat
- Bold and energizing – Vibrant sunsets, dramatic skies, or rich tropical colors bring energy and wow factor
- Warm and inviting – Golden hour landscapes, warm earth tones, or sunrise imagery make spaces feel welcoming
The colors in your photography should complement your outdoor furniture, architecture, and natural surroundings.
Composition Matters
Certain compositions naturally draw the eye and work well in outdoor settings:
- Horizontal panoramas – Perfect for long walls or above outdoor seating areas; they create a sense of expansiveness
- Vertical formats – Great for narrow spaces like breezeways or between architectural elements
- Focal point imagery – Images with a clear subject create natural conversation starters
A lone Honu (Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle) I came across in the middle of crystal clear turquoise Maui waters. So peaceful to observe as they glide so gracefully through the water.
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Creating Connection
At the end of the day, the best outdoor art is imagery that resonates with you personally. Maybe it's a place you've visited, a feeling you want to capture, or simply a photograph that makes you pause and breathe a little deeper.
Installing Outdoor Wall Art
Once you've chosen your perfect print and location, it's time to think about installation. The good news? It doesn't have to be complicated.
Surface Matters
Different outdoor surfaces require different approaches:
- Stucco and concrete – These are common for outdoor walls and handle heavy prints well, but you'll need the right anchors and hardware
- Wood – Easier to work with, but make sure it's structurally sound and can support the weight
- Brick – Durable and secure, though drilling can be trickier
- Stone – Beautiful but requires specialized hardware and careful planning
Weight Considerations
Metal prints are lightweight compared to traditional framed art, which makes installation easier. That said, larger pieces still need proper support. Make sure your hanging system is rated for the weight of your print, and when in doubt, use more anchors rather than fewer.
Need Guidance?
My prints are shipped to you with a hanging system and hardware that are easy to install. Watch this video for a quick demo.
But if you're not sure about the right print size, substrate, or hardware for your specific outdoor space, reach out. Sometimes a quick conversation can save a lot of trial and error.
I'm happy to talk through your project and make sure you have everything you need for a successful installation.
Protecting Your Investment
With the right materials and smart placement, outdoor art is far more resilient than most people think.
The rare Hawaiian Silversword can only be found on the slopes on Haleakala on Maui and Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa on the Big Island of Hawaii. These incredible plants are endangered and unlike any other plant I've seen. I got caught in a rainstorm up on Haleakala and I thought that the plant looked even more unique with water droplets.
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What You Don't Need to Worry About
- Occasional rain – Metal prints are completely waterproof
- Humidity – Metal prints thrive in humid environments
- Moderate temperature fluctuations – They handle heat and cold without warping
What Can Matter
- Intense UV Exposure: While metal prints are UV-resistant, prolonged direct sunlight can cause gradual fading over many years. Place your art in covered or partially shaded areas and your prints will maintain their vibrancy for decades.
- Salt Air (coastal locations): Salt spray can build up over time, but it's easily managed with occasional cleaning. Metal prints won't corrode or rust.
- Proper Installation: Secure mounting is essential, especially in windy areas. Use appropriate hardware for your wall type and print size.
Maintenance: Simple & Quick
One of the best things about metal prints? They require almost zero maintenance.
Dust, debris, or smudges can easily be wiped off with a soft cloth and glass cleaner. Acrlyic prints and surfboard artwork can be cleaned this way too. With canvas prints, clean gently with a feather duster and avoid water.
Every few months, do a quick check to make sure:
- The mounting hardware is secure
- There is no unusual discoloration (rare, but may mean the print needs a more protected spot)
This pathway takes you on a magical journey through this amazing enchanted forest. One of the most amazing places I've been to on the island of Maui, I felt I needed to capture the path itself to take you into this scene.
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Ready to Transform Your Outdoor Spaces?
Quick Recap:
- Choose metal prints for durability and easy maintenance
- Prioritize covered or partially shaded locations
- Select imagery that complements your environment
- Install securely with proper hardware
- Maintain with occasional cleaning
Your outdoor spaces deserve more than patio furniture and string lights. Whether you're drawn to serene ocean scenes, dramatic sunsets, lush forests, or bold surfboard art, there's something that will speak to your space.
Not sure which piece is right for you? Reach out. I love talking through projects and helping find the perfect fit for your unique outdoor space.
A weathered piece of driftwood stands as a silent guardian of the Maui coastline, a reminder of nature’s resilience and the timeless dialogue between sea and sky.
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