Tips for Choosing the Right Photo Paper

At FinerWorks, we see more and more photographers not only gravitating to our services when it comes to producing high-quality prints but also giclee style printing which are essentially inkjet prints. Shifting to this style of printing as traditional artists have done for their fine art reproduction is something that many photographers still might be considering. If this is you, choosing a paper for your photo prints is always an interesting discussion.

When it comes to printing your photos, the choice of photo paper is just as important as the quality of your printer and ink. The right paper can enhance the beauty of your prints, bringing out vivid colors and sharp details. Here are some tips to help you choose the best inkjet photo paper for your needs.

Finish Type

The finish of the photo paper significantly impacts the look and feel of your prints:

• Glossy: This finish offers vibrant colors and sharp details, making it ideal for high-impact images. However, it can create glare, which might not be suitable for all viewing conditions.
• Matte: A non-reflective surface provides a softer look with more subtle colors. Matte paper is great for prints without glare and is ideal for displaying under bright lights.
• Luster/Satin: This finish strikes a balance between glossy and matte, offering some shine without excessive glare. It’s a versatile option for many types of images.

Paper Thickness & Weight

The weight of the paper contributes to its durability, feel, and perceived value. Heavier papers (measured in grams per square meter, or gsm) often feel more substantial and professional. They resist curling and handle ink better. Look for paper weights of 170 gsm and above for quality photo prints. While thinner papers can look just as good, heavier papers can help justify the cost in both your eyes as well as your clients. With a heavier paper stock, the recipients almost always feel they are getting something of value.

Brightness and Whiteness

These attributes affect the contrast and color appearance of your prints. Higher brightness levels often result in more vivid colors and better contrast. Whiteness influences how colors are perceived; a bluish-white may enhance cool colors, while a neutral white offers a balanced look.

Ink Compatibility

It’s essential to choose paper that’s compatible with your printer’s ink type. Some papers are specially coated to work better with dye or pigment inks. While we already do this for you, if you decide to use another color lab, get some assurance that the paper you select matches your printer’s ink type to achieve the best results. Also, make sure they are not using off-brand inks of questionable origin. We have heard of many color labs doing this in an attempt to cut costs. While this can be tempting to do, it could result in prints that don’t hold up to the test of time.

Archival Quality

For long-lasting prints, consider archival-quality paper. Choose papers that are acid-free and lignin-free to ensure prints don’t yellow or degrade over time. Archival-quality papers are designed to preserve the integrity of your images for years. You will also see papers with words like OBA-free as well. These mean bleaching agents are not used to help with the whitening of the paper. This used to be an area of some contention since past OBAs could fade over time, however, most reputable paper manufacturers use superior OBAs that will not fade, or change the appearance of the artwork over time.

Texture

Textures can add a unique touch to your prints. some papers offer textures that mimic traditional art papers, like canvas or watercolor textures. These can add depth and interest to your images. And like the weight and thickness, it too can add to perceived value.

Choosing the right inkjet photo paper involves considering various factors, from finish type to ink compatibility. By taking the time to select the appropriate paper, you can ensure that your prints look their best and stand the test of time.