Best paper for printing pictures
Best Inkjet Papers for Photos – ARTnews.com
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To achieve the best print-at-home images, you’ll need a good printer and ink, but also good paper. The sheets you use can make or break a print: poor-quality papers can result in muddier images, darker colors, and lines that aren’t quite clean. In addition to quality, also consider the color of the sheets, which can come in a range of whites; whether or not the product is archival; and the paper’s weight and finish. Our picks below will help you find the right product to meet your personal and professional preferences and needs.
Best Overall: Epson Ultra Premium Photo Paper Luster
Ask fine-art photographers what their favorite inkjet photo paper is, and they’ll likely say Epson Ultra Premium Photo Paper Luster. The reason? It does the best job of simulating the look of a traditional silver halide print while consistently producing vivid, lifelike colors; excellent sharpness; and top-notch image quality. As the “Luster” in its name suggests, this paper has a shiny and bright but not highly reflective surface so your image will be viewable from a variety of angles. With a resin-coated polyethylene base, a weight of 240 gsm, and a thickness of 10 mil, this is a paper with some heft, yet it’s still thin enough to slide into most frames. We also liked that it dries instantly so you can handle your photo right out of the printer.
Purchase: Epson Ultra Premium Photo Paper Luster, 8.5 x 11″, 50 sheets $33.99 on Amazon
Best Matte Paper: Canon Photo Paper Premium Matte
If you want a nonreflective paper that will make your photos look great in various lighting conditions, Canon Photo Paper Premium Matte should be your choice. With a bright matte finish that doesn’t reveal any fiber texture even on close inspection, this is one of the smoothest papers of its kind that we’ve used. This results in photo prints that have the vibrancy of coated papers but a nonreflective finish.
Blacks look darker and colors have a wider gamut than other matte papers we’ve tested. This one weighs 210 gsm with a thickness of 12.1 mil, which feels less substantial than other matte photo papers but is easier to mount and hang for a gallery show. And it won’t pick up fingerprints when handled.
Purchase: Canon Photo Paper Premium Matte, 8.5 x 11″, 50 sheets, $14.99 on B&H
Best Darkroom-Style Paper: Canson Infinity Baryta Photographique II
Lots of companies offer inkjet papers that they claim mimic darkroom-style photo paper, but a print made with Canson Infinity’s Baryta Photographique II really does look and feel like a traditional silver halide print. Baryta papers are coated with barium sulfate, which is a brightener that boosts reflectivity. Baryta Photographique II features a 100 percent barium sulphate layer resulting in superb inkjet photos that take us back to our darkroom days of classic fiber-based silver gelatin prints.
We like the paper’s satiny finish, and both black-and-white and color images pop off the page. Baryta Photographique II also feels like a hefty darkroom paper, weighing in at 310 gsm with a thickness of 12 mil. It will not only create prints that feel good in your hand but also boost your photos’ perceived value so you can price them accordingly at your next show.
Purchase: Canson Infinity Baryta Photographique II, 8.5 x 11″, 25 sheets, $33.50 on Blick
Best Glossy Paper: Hahnemühle Photo Glossy 260
Glossy photo papers aren’t always the first choice of artists who make digital images because a highly reflective surface can make these works difficult to see in bright light, such as when mounted on a wall at a gallery show. But if we had to choose one high-gloss inkjet paper to use, it would be Hahnemühle Photo Glossy 260, which produces professional-quality photo prints that look stunning in a portfolio to show to potential clients.
This bright white, resin-coated paper has a smooth, non-textured surface that will help your images stand out. Along with portfolios, this paper is well suited for photo books thanks to its relatively light weight and thinness. Its versatility makes it a great option for everyday use, including for test prints.
Purchase: Hahnemühle Photo Glossy, 8.5 x 11″, 25 sheets, $20.23 on B&H
Best Cotton Paper: Moab Entrada Rag Bright 300
This gorgeous cotton paper will make your images look like works of art. Made from 100 percent cotton fiber, Entrada Rag handles ink extremely well so photos look sharp with precise detail and superior tonality. Colors are vivid and blacks are deep on this bright white paper despite its matte surface. A dual-sided fine-art paper with multiple receiving layers that absorb ink extremely well, Entrada Rag dries instantly so prints can be handled right away. We also like that these substantial sheets—300 gsm and 22.
5 mil thick—are acid and lignin free and water resistant, making them archival with impressive longevity. Most of all, though, this heavyweight cotton paper creates prints that beg to be hung on a wall.
Purchase: Moab Entrada Rag Bright 300, 8.5 x 11″, 25 sheets, $37.99 on Amazon
12 Best Photo Papers for Inkjet Printers (Top Picks 2023)
Finding the best photo paper for your inkjet printer can be daunting. With so many different brands and varieties, it can be difficult to know which is right for you. In this article, we’ll be looking at 12 of the best photo papers for inkjet printers. This includes products from Canon, HP, Epson, and more.
The Canon Luster Photo Paper tops our list. The print quality is exceptional. And the luster finish gives your photos a professional look. The prints are suitable for sale and gallery display and don’t fade over time.
Canon Luster Photo Paper
Create professional-looking, high-quality prints with this luster photo paper.
It’s perfect for any inkjet printer.
Buy from Amazon
×
Canon Luster Photo Paper
Amazon
$23.99 $34.99
Buy Now!
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What is the Best Photo Paper?There are many different photo papers on the market. Different types of paper give you different results. There are different price ranges. And many companies produce high-quality photo paper.
We have more information on paper types in the section below. We look at their size, thickness, and finish in detail. This information will help you find the exact photo paper you need.
Here’s a quick overview of our list of the best photo paper for inkjet printers. We’ll look at each paper in more detail in the following section.
Or you can skip to the Finding the Best Photo Paper section at the end of the article.
Canon Luster Photo Paper
Our Top Choice
- Compatible with all inkjet printers
- Bright and vibrant color photo prints
- Luster finish gives you high-quality, glare-free photos
- Durable and long-lasting prints
- Quality guaranteed by Canon
Buy from Amazon
HP Everyday Glossy Photo Paper
Best for Daily Use
- Perfect for creating quality, everyday photo prints
- Optimized for HP ink and toner
- Vivid colors and sharp images
- Glossy finish for a professional look
- Environmentally sustainable
Buy from Amazon
Epson Premium Semi-Gloss Photo Paper
Best Semi-Gloss Finish
- High-quality paper for best prints
- Semi-gloss finish for realistic effect
- Vibrant colors and sharp details
- Durable, long-lasting prints that don't fade
- Instant drying for quick handling
Buy from Amazon
Epson Presentation Matte Paper
Best Matte Finish
- Smooth non-glare finish is ideal for gallery display
- High-contrast clarity and precision details
- Ideal for vibrant color prints
- Super-fast drying times so there's no smudging
- Heavyweight stock for strong and durable prints
Buy from Amazon
Hahnemuhle High Glossy Photo Paper
Best for Pros
- Professional results for publication, sale, and display
- Vibrant colors and vivid details
- Exceptional lightfast—no discoloring when exposed to light
- Instant dry so there's no risk or smudges or smears
- Exceptional longevity with no fading for years
Buy from Amazon
Koala Glossy Thin InkJet Photo Paper
Best for Home Use
- Affordable photo paper for home or enthusiast-level printing
- Compatible with all inkjet printers
- Thin yet strong material
- Glossy finish for vivid pictures
- No smudging with instant-dry quality
Buy from Amazon
HP Premium Plus Photo Paper
Best Mid-Range Paper
- High-quality paper that gives you long-lasting photos
- Bright, glossy finish with true-to-life colors
- Excellent for prints up to 8.
5 x 11 inch - Ideal for preserving memories
- Environmentally friendly
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Ilford Galerie Prestige Photo Paper
Best Ilford Paper
- Impressive color and tone reproduction
- High contrast and sharpness
- Instant-dry and smudge-proof finish
- Triple-coated for extra durability
- Acid-free for long-lasting prints
Buy from Amazon
Canon Platinum Pro Photo Paper PT-101
Best Mid-Range Canon Paper
- Premium glossy finish
- High color gamut for vibrant images
- Ink dries in an instant so there's not risk of smudging or running
- Smudge- and water-resistant, providing security against wear and tear
- Exceptionally thick for long-lasting photos
Buy from Amazon
Epson Ultra Premium Photo Paper
Best Epson Paper
- Excellent value for a premium paper
- Brilliant white color works well with black-and-white photographs
- The prints are the perfect size for sale
- High-quality smudge-resistant prints
- Ideal for professional-grade photos
Buy from Amazon
Uinkit Presentation Photo Paper
Best Presentation Paper
- Perfect for newsletters, flyers, reports, and arts and crafts
- Sharp and vivid colors
- Works with all inkjet printers
- Resistant to water and durable
- Fade-resistant for long-lasting prints
Buy from Amazon
Amazon Basics Glossy Photo Paper
Great Value
- Crisp and bright prints
- Compatible with all inkjet printers
- Instant drying for water-based inks
- Fast-drying and smudge-free
- Long-lasting quality
Buy from Amazon
12 Best Photo Papers for InkJet PrintersHere are the top photo papers for inkjet printers.
We’ve included something for every photographer. We have everyday photo papers for printing your favorite holiday snaps. And we have premium papers for professional photo printing.
Brand Canon
Paper Size 8.5 x 11 inches / 21.6 x 27.9 cm
Paper Weight 69 lb / 260 gsm
Finish Luster
Key Features Beautiful luster finish
Best For Professional printing and gallery displays
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Canon Luster Photo Paper
Amazon
$23.99 $34.99
Buy Now!
Hitting that sweet spot between glossy and matte, this Canon luster photo paper lifts images without making them sparkle. It is ideal if reflected light is a problem. And at 260 gsm (grams per square meter), it has some heft.
The finish helps to resist smudging. And Canon, of course, recommends using Canon ink. Photographers will appreciate the range of available sizes, which goes up to 9 x 13 inches (22.
8 x 33 cm).
Brand HP
Paper Size 4 x 6 inches / 10 x 15 cm
Paper Weight 53 lb / 200 gsm
Finish Glossy
Key Features Excellent value and nice glossy finish
Best For HP printers and casual photo printing
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HP Everyday Glossy Photo Paper
Amazon
$12.99
Buy Now!
As with all the major inkjet printer manufacturers, HP recommends using HP ink with its photo paper for added print durability. And HP paper tends to produce better results if you have an HP printer. This is certainly true when it comes to cheaper photo paper.
The HP paper is a reliable, everyday glossy photo paper with the added appeal of FSC certification. That means you can expect good-quality prints every time. And the standard is very good for good-value, sustainable paper. You’ll have a fabulous collection of printed photos for your walls, mantles, and albums.
Brand Epson
Paper Size 8.5 x 11 inches / 21.6 x 27.9 cm
Paper Weight 67 lb / 251 gsm
Finish Semi-Gloss
Key Features Subtle and glare-reducing semi-gloss finish, water-resistant finish
Best For Semi-pro or high-class amateur photo printing
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Epson Premium Semi-Gloss Photo Paper
Amazon
$16.98
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There’s not much to choose between luster and semi-gloss. And this Epson premium photo paper is designed to replicate the resin-coated papers of a photo lab. Epson claims their inks have a degree of water resistance, meaning an accidental splash won’t spell disaster!
This is a heavy paper that should give fabulous results for display purposes. And it’s available up to 13 x 9 inches (33 x 22.8 cm). The quality of the colors, details, and finish give you photo prints you can display or sell.
Brand Epson
Paper Size 8.5 x 11 inches / 21.6 x 27.9 cm
Paper Weight 27 lb / 102 gsm
Finish Matte
Key Features Texted matte finish and lightweight paper
Best For Black and white photos and prints for frames or albums
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Epson Presentation Matte Paper
Amazon
$9.86 $12.69
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The weight of this matte paper means that it is more multi-purpose than the glossy paper reviewed earlier. By its very nature, matte photo paper produces excellent text quality. So while this paper will produce sharp images, it can also be used for brochures and reports.
This paper is a bit flimsy for passing photos back and forth a lot between friends. But your black and white prints will look good without breaking the bank.
Brand Hahnemuhle
Paper Size 8.5 x 11 inches / 21.
6 x 27.9 cm
Paper Weight 315 gsm
Finish Glossy
Key Features Fabulous color rendition and ink dries instantly
Best For Professional printing for publication, sale, or gallery display
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Hahnemuhle High Glossy Photo Paper
Amazon
$53.43
Buy Now!
This is a baryta photo paper from the highly-respected German company Hahnemühle. They have been manufacturing paper on the same site since the 16th century. And they’ve set the standard for their environmental credentials.
This photo paper gets the “rag” in its subtitle because it’s made from 100% cotton fibers left over from textile manufacturing. At 315 gsm, this is another heavyweight photo paper aimed at long-lasting displays and fine art. A high-gloss finish provides crisp detail, and the cotton paper gives a natural warmth to highlights.
It’s available in various sizes, including rolls up to 64 inches ((1.
62 m) wide. Hahnemühle offers a sample set of six different photo papers, including two sheets of each type. You can download Hahnemühle ICC profiles for all their photo papers if you’re very technical and detailed. That gives you a better idea of what you can expect before printing your best photos.
Brand Koala Paper
Paper Size 8.5 x 11 inches / 21.6 x 27.9 cm
Paper Weight 30 lb / 115 gsm
Finish Glossy
Key Features Excellent value, quick-drying, and vivid colors
Best For At-home photo printing for family and friends
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Koala Glossy Thin InkJet Photo Paper
Amazon
$12.99 $14.99
Buy Now!
This photo paper from Koala is excellent for at-home printing. It’s excellent value, so you don’t need to take out a loan to print a full holiday album. And the colors and detail are excellent. They will be worthy of display in anyone’s home.
The photo paper is thin. That can be handy for some photographers. But it also means the photos are more susceptible to wear and tear. You’ll need something stronger for professional displays or selling prints. But it’s an excellent photo paper for sharing with families and friends.
Brand HP
Paper Size 8.5 x 11 inches / 21.6 x 27.9 cm
Paper Weight 80 lb / 300 gsm
Finish Glossy
Key Features Water-resistant surface that doesn't smudge
Best For High-standard amateur printing and display
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HP Premium Plus Photo Paper
At 300 gsm, this has a quality feel to it. And the glossy finish produces clear, crisp images. This photo paper receives high praise in customer reviews. And it is another HP photo paper that is FSC certified (environmentally friendly).
The glossy surface is water-resistant and resists smudges by drying instantly.
The colors and details are outstanding. And there’s very little fading over time, so your memories stay strong for years.
Brand Ilford
Paper Size 8.5 x 11 inches / 21.6 x 27.9 cm
Paper Weight 84 lb / 310 gsm
Finish Luster
Key Features Rich, glare-free luster finish and wide range of paper sizes
Best For Professional photo printing for sale and display
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Ilford Galerie Prestige Photo Paper
Amazon
$79.99
Buy Now!
Ilford has been making photo paper since 1879. And it was one of the first traditional photo paper manufacturers to move into digital media. Their Galerie Prestige smooth, Pearl photo paper has a non-reflective surface that dries instantly.
Ilford Galerie Prestige smooth, pearl photo paper is available in a range of sizes up to 17 x 22 inches. And used with HP Vivera inks, this photo paper has been assessed by Wilhelm Imaging Research as having a permanence rating for over 200 years.
Brand Canon
Paper Size 8.5 x 11 inches / 21.6 x 27.9 cm
Paper Weight 80 lb / 300 gsm
Finish Glossy
Key Features Triple-coated layer for extra strength and high-contrast imagery
Best For Enthusiast-level photo printing
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Canon Platinum Pro Photo Paper PT-101
Amazon
$17.99 $24.99
Buy Now!
Canon’s flagship premium glossy photo paper was developed from the previous Paper Pro PR-101. The Platinum PT-101 combines deep, rich blacks with a neutral, natural-looking white. The glossy surface gives crispness to the final print. And the surface of the coating helps improve drying times.
Brand Epson
Paper Size 8.5 x 11 inches / 21.6 x 27.9 cm
Paper Weight 79 lb / 297 gsm
Finish Glossy
Key Features Beautiful color rendering and instant-dry, anti-smudge finish
Best For High-quality home and enthusiast-level printing
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Epson Ultra Premium Photo Paper
Amazon
$32.
11 $39.99
Buy Now!
Instant-dry and compatible with all printers, Epson’s Ultra Premium Photo Paper produces images with brilliance and deep gloss. The color rendition is bright and accurate. And the tones are true-to-life, giving accurate renditions of your finest photographs.
It is available in various sizes up to 8.5 x 11 inches. The ink dries instantly and has a degree of water resistance in case of accidents. And it gives you durable prints that last a long time.
Brand Uinkit
Paper Size 8.5 x 11 inches / 21.6 x 27.9 cm
Paper Weight 37 lb / 130 gsm
Finish Matte
Key Features Double-sided photo printing
Best For Home photo printing for friends and family
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Uinkit Presentation Photo Paper
Amazon
$15.99
Buy Now!
What sets this matte paper apart is that it prints double-sided.
Not much use if you’re hoping to display your photos, but in that case, you would probably opt for a heavier weight stock.
But it does offer a solution for many situations beyond printing reports. Cards, brochures, and leaflets will benefit from having a smooth, printable surface on both sides.
Despite being relatively inexpensive, it produces bright colors. And the surface and thickness help to avoid the bleed-through that you would get with ordinary 80 gsm office paper. It’s not a paper you’d use whenever you want to print your photos, but it’s ideally suited for specific purposes.
Brand Amazon Basics
Paper Size 4 x 6 inches / 10 x 15 cm
Paper Weight 53 lb / 200 gsm
Finish Glossy
Key Features Bright and crisp photos prints
Best For Home photo printing and printing en masse
×
Amazon Basics Glossy Photo Paper
Amazon
$15.
77
Buy Now!
At 56 lbs / 200 gsm, this glossy paper will probably be the lightest paper you would want to use for a durable record of your photos. It is treated with a smudge-resistant surface designed to prevent tackiness.
It’s also available in 5 x 7 inches (12.7 x 17.8 cm) and US letter size (8.5 x 11 inches or 21.6 x 27.9 cm). The overall quality of the photos is very high despite the value-price and branding.
It’s a good choice if you need to print a lot of photos but don’t want to break the bank. You will need something stronger for selling prints. But this paper produces excellent photos for family and friends.
Finding the Best Photo Paper
Although we live in a digital world, there’s nothing quite like looking at photos in your hands. And what photographer doesn’t like having their best photos displayed on a wall in all their glory?
But choosing an appropriate printer and the best photo paper to print your masterpieces can be confusing. A quick online search of local electronics shops returned 154 results for “photo papers.
”
So we’ll narrow down your choices to determine the best photo paper for your inkjet printer. Inkjet printers are a modern miracle that we take for granted. But getting the best out of them means carefully choosing the right paper and ink.
© Trevor MarshallHow to Decide What Paper is Best for You
When choosing the best photo paper for inkjet printers, we must make a few choices. What weight is best? Which finish is best? Most of the answers to these questions will be determined by a few factors:
- What do you want to do with the print?
- How and where will you display it?
- What are your printer’s capabilities?
If your printer doesn’t have a direct paper feed, you are limited in the weight of paper you can use. It’s worth checking, as many printers have a rear slot for envelopes or heavyweight paper. Check the manual to establish the maximum weight that works for your printer.
Relatively cheap photo paper lets you print out photos for making cards or putting them on display.
But for higher-quality display purposes, you want paper with a heavier weight. And you also want the better finish you get from high-quality photo paper.
What is Paper Weight?
We live in a connected world, but there are still some significant areas of divergence. One of these is how we define paper types. In the US, paper weight is expressed in pounds (lb). And everywhere else, it’s listed as grams per square meter (g/m2 or, more commonly, “gsm”).
With US paper, you might also find the type of paper included listed as “80 lb cover paper” or “80 lb text paper.” These are two different weights of paper—216 gsm and 118 gsm, respectively.
And weight, of course, measures thickness. The heavier the listed weight, the thicker the paper is. The everyday printer paper we use for printing our essays and letters to the bank manager is usually 80 gsm. This same paper is listed as 54 lbs in the US.
In general, fine art paper is thicker. And everyday paper comes in a variety of weights.
Choosing the Correct Paper Size
And to add to the fun, the sizes are often different. US letter size (8.5 x 11 inches or 21.6 x 27.9 cm) is standard for regular office printing, whereas others would use A4 (8.3 x 11.7 or 21 x 29.7 cm).
The good news is that a normal photo, which you might send your granny for the holidays, works well in both imperial (4 x 6 inches) and metric (10 x 15 cm). And even better news, this is the same ratio of a full frame or APS-C photo, which is 2:3.
(DepositPhotos)Printer, Ink, and Paper Quality
It seems obvious, but the quality of your printer will have a big impact on the quality of your prints. If you want fine art photography prints, then you will need a high-quality printer to print on high-quality photo paper. You will also need to know about pigment inks and how they react with the paper’s surface.
Do you need archive-quality art paper that will be resistant to UV light? Do you want a textured matte finish, like canvas, or do you need sticky-backed photo paper?
And if you want to preserve our environment, one of your criteria might be increased sustainability.
Some papers carry certification from the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). This certification addresses sustainability factors in the production, packaging, and transportation of goods.
What Finish Should You Choose?
The surface finish of the paper has a significant impact on the final print. It can affect how visible the image is, especially if there’s glare where you’re displaying it. You also want to consider the finish if you’re displaying it behind glass.
The finish can also determine how much your picture “pops” off the page. You can read our articles comparing photo paper finishes:
- Luster vs glossy
- Glossy vs matte
In conclusion, Canon Luster photo paper is the best for inkjet printers. It offers a great combination of brightness and vividness, resulting in beautiful and vibrant images.
We’ve also shown budget photo papers for use at home. They might not have the dazzling pro finish of the premium brands.
But they still give you gorgeous photographs you can display at home or share with friends. So there’s a photo paper for every photographer!
Canon Luster Photo Paper
Create professional-looking, high-quality prints with this luster photo paper, perfect for any inkjet printer.
Buy from Amazon
×
Canon Luster Photo Paper
Amazon
$23.99 $34.99
Buy Now!
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Photo paper: how to choose the right one?
Modern equipment is capable of printing colorful photos even at home, but technology alone is not enough. You need to choose the right paper for printing photos. The drying speed of the dye, the realism of color reproduction, the shelf life and presentability of the image depend on its composition and characteristics.
From the usual printed paper, this material is distinguished by two features: nine0003
- layered;
- with a special coating.
Plain material absorbs moisture, while photo paper has a protective layer. Due to this, the dye is fixed on the photocarrier, due to which its smearing and leakage are prevented. The ink dries and remains on the printed surface.
To make your photos pleasing to the eye for a long time, choose high-quality paper
Material structure
Photo paper consists of at least 5 layers. Each of them has its own purpose. There is a connection between the number of layers and the cost of the material: the more there are, the higher the cost.
Do not assume that media with more layers will be denser than one with fewer layers. This is not always the case though. Separate layers can be micron in size, they practically do not affect the carrier density.
The material structure looks like this: nine0003
- Laying layer - the base for placing all other layers.
- Landing layer - acts as a link, fastens the laying layer with the rest.
- Polyethylene layer - Provides elasticity to the substrate on which the photo is printed. The ability of the material to withstand external factors, and hence the durability of the image, depends on this characteristic.
- Paper layer - the main component, the basis of the material. nine0008
- Absorbent Layer - Works with a wide range of dyes. Absorbs ink moisture, prevents their penetration into the lower layers.
- Reproducing layer - has its own characteristics for materials of different types, depends on the density of the material and purpose.
Image quality depends on the types and number of layers
Photo papers
Depending on the type of coating, there are 4 types of photo paper. nine0003
Glossy
Printing on gloss is in demand in the commercial sphere and in everyday life. This is how photographs, posters, advertising posters, posters, photo calendars are created .
.. That is, products on which it is important to show color saturation and soft tone transitions. Its characteristic feature is brilliance. The glossy layer protects the ink from fading/washing.
When printing on gloss, water-soluble inks are used. They dry quickly, create a durable and bright image on the surface. Pigment inks are not suitable here - they spread. nine0003
More vibrant colors on glossy paper
Semi-gloss
Primarily used for home photo printing. It is versatile and inexpensive. Photos are of high quality, wear-resistant. The paper has a sheen, but not as expressive as glossy. The material is more durable than gloss.
Super Gloss
This type is shinier and more expensive than glossy. Pictures are as colorful as possible. The material is used in commercial printing, when the high quality of printing must correspond to the status of the product referred to on the product (poster, flyer, photo).
For printing on super glossy paper, pigment inks are used exclusively. nine0003
Satin Matt
This is an intermediate link between matte and glossy. The advantage in comparison with the first is the best transfer of shades, with the second - a moderate shine, the material does not glare, fingerprints do not remain on it. Spheres of use: printing of photographs, drawings, graphics, promotional products. Both pigment and water-soluble inks are suitable for printing on silky-matte paper.
Matt
Versatile print media. The pictures are detailed and contrast. The density of matte paper varies, which predetermines the scope of its use. Thin material is suitable for printing photos, and thicker material is suitable for printing business cards and promotional booklets. nine0003
Compared to glossy paper, matte paper renders color transitions worse. It is optimal for printing images with a high level of detail, with a lot of fine details. The press on a opaque basis is actual for photo studios, small printing houses, house conditions.
Matte paper is better for realistic halftones
Satin
It has a semi-gloss finish with a soft sheen. This is the best option for a home photo lab. Pictures are of high quality even at a low cost - printing on satin paper is cheaper than on glossy paper. It is durable, color accuracy is similar to matte. It is believed that in order to obtain accurate shades on a satin carrier, special color profiles are needed. nine0003
Photo paper and printers
When choosing, they are repelled not only by characteristics and cost. Compatibility with existing equipment must be taken into account. It is best to use "native" photo paper, that is, the one recommended by the manufacturer.
Epson is considered the leader in the range of media for its devices. If you have a printer of this brand, take the same paper. It is in this case that the compatibility of the device and the media is guaranteed.
The other side of the issue is that paper recommended by the manufacturer is more expensive.
Savings option - buying material in large quantities, including in rolls (you can create panoramas). It’s more profitable, but small photo studios and home mini-studios can’t always afford large purchases. And the equipment for roll printing is quite rare.
Another savings option is to buy paper from third-party manufacturers. It is cheaper, but does not always provide the desired color reproduction. Image stability problems may occur. The most high-quality material for printing photographs is offered by such manufacturers: Lomond, Kodak, Konica Minolta. This list includes Avery Zweckform and Fullmark, but their products are less popular in Russia. nine0003
Even a budget printer can handle photo printing, the main thing is to choose the right paper
Format, density and other specifications
Photo paper formats are standardized. The most common: A6 (10x15 cm), A5 (14.8x21 cm), A4 (21x29.7 cm). Manufacturers also produce materials of non-standard sizes, but they are less in demand.
About 80% of photo products are printed in A6 and A5 formats.
Photo paper is also classified by density. The higher this figure, the easier it is to get a quality print. At the same time, it is important to stick to the golden mean: too dense material creates an overload on the printer's driving mechanism, accelerating its wear. nine0003
130 gsm media is sufficient for printing booklets, graphics. m. For photographs, the optimal indicator is from 230 to 280 g / sq. m.
Pay attention to:
- Brightness - the indicator has a numeric expression (range from 1 to 100). The highest values indicate that it contains optical brighteners. Their effect on paper properties is poorly understood. It is believed that they reduce wear resistance. Supporters of brighteners believe that the substances protect the material from yellowing. nine0008
- Gauge is the thickness of the paper. The unit of measure is mils (one thousandth of an inch).
Different printers work with media of different calibers. - Acidity. The optimum pH is 7 (neutral). Such material is more durable, but acid paper is prone to self-destruction.
Careful selection of media characteristics will ensure the success of the home photo lab
If you print on an Epson printer and non-original paper (from another manufacturer), there is a risk of getting a photo with a white stripe around the edges. How to avoid this, look at the video: nine0003
Summary
- Photo paper has a multilayer structure.
- The material is classified according to the type of coating. Glossy photo paper reproduces tonal transitions better, while matte paper more accurately displays fine details.
- By purchasing "native" media, you achieve a balance between media type, printer and ink. This guarantees high quality printing.
- In order to save money, you can buy products from independent manufacturers, but you should trust only well-known companies. nine0008
- The higher the paper weight, the better the image and the more stringent the requirements for the printer's transport mechanism.
6 Best Photo Paper - Top Ranking 2021-2022 according to user reviews
6
2021 - 2022
nine0002 Photography is a great way to capture important moments for years to come. Now, to save memorable moments, you do not need to leave the house. Modern printers can boast of high quality photo printing, but one feature should be taken into account. To obtain high contrast and bright colors, photo paper is required.
There are several factors to consider when choosing paper for printing images. It is necessary to determine the type of paper (glossy / matte). It is also important to understand what size will be useful in everyday printing. And in the end, you should pay attention to the price and quality of the purchased goods. nine0003
We've compiled a list of the best photo paper based on expert reviews and reviews from real customers. Our recommendations will help you make the best choice for your requirements and desires. There are many competitors on the global equipment market, but we have selected the best manufacturers and recommend paying special attention to them:
- Cactus
- EPSON
- Canon
- Lomond
Categories
For printers For Epson For Canon Matte Glossy Size: A4 Size: 10x15 nine0003
| 1 | Cactus CS-GA623050ED 10x15 | $150 |
| 2 | EPSON Ultra Glossy Photo Paper A4 | RUB 1,950 |
| 3 | nine0168 Cactus CS-MA419025 A4 175 p. | |
| 4 | EPSON Matte Paper Heavyweight | $1,215 |
| 5 | Canon Everyday Use Glossy GP-501 A4 | nine0168 650 RUB|
| 6 | Lomond 0102034 10x15 | $190 |
*Prices valid at time of publication and subject to change without prior notice.
For printers
Cactus CS-GA623050ED 10x15 nine0223
Glossy / For Canon / For Epson / For printers / Size: 10x15
*from user reviews
Read more about Cactus CS-GA623050ED 10x15 (photo paper) nine0003
Minimum price:
Main advantages
- Thanks to careful processing, photo paper acquires the lightest tone of white.
Whiteness is up to 98%, which ensures maximum brightness of colors - The glossy finish has a high color saturation and excellent depth and contrast in the printed photo.
- The paper format has a standard A6 sheet format, which is supported by almost all graphic editors and programs designed for printing photos
- The surface absorbs paint very well. Instant drop absorption helps print sharper lines
- Easy storage paper, great for home printing
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For Canon
Canon Everyday Use Glossy GP-501 A4
Glossy / For Canon / For printers / Size: A4
*from user reviews
Read more about Canon Everyday Use Glossy GP-501 A4 (photo paper) nine0003
Starting price:
Highlights
- Sheet packaging has a rigid cardboard base and is designed for everyday use.
The box will help keep photo paper flat and clean - The structure of the paper has micropores that instantly let the ink inside, leaving nothing on the surface. As a result - instant drying of the image and high resistance to "burn-out" of colors
- Glossy coating will reliably protect pictures from the negative effects of sunlight and constant contact with air
- A sheet of 0.21 mm thick photo paper is flexible enough to fit through a printer's tray, yet tough enough to withstand everyday stress
- Glossy coating has several layers, including a top protective layer, which helps protect the workpiece from wear and damage
Show all For Canon
Matte
Cactus CS-MA419025 A4
For Canon / For Epson / For printers / Matte / Size: A4
*from user reviews
Read more about Cactus CS-MA419025 A4 (photo paper) nine0003
Starting price:
Highlights
- Rigid backing helps photo paper be used as greeting cards, invitations, business cards, or original important documents or reports
- The paper has a weight of 190 g/m2 for high strength.
The ratio is universal for all types of printers - A4 format is supported not only by programs for working with graphic images, but also by any office editors
- Photo paper is highly absorbent and well suited for water-based ink
- Matte type coating provides high print contrast and more accurate display of fine details of the printed image
EPSON Matte Paper Heavyweight
For Epson / For printers / Matte / Size: A4
*from user reviews
Read more about EPSON Matte Paper Heavyweight (photo paper) nine0003
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Key benefits
- The matte finish has a dense protective layer that is resistant to slight physical impacts.
Photo does not collect dust and fingerprints - A4 format will allow you to print full-fledged abstracts with attaching interesting photos or a report with bright graphs and color charts
- Photo paper does not require special storage conditions. The material retains its positive properties both before and after printing
- High contrast and deep blacks for the best black and white images. A clear transition between colors and lack of glossy sheen are great for displaying infographics
- The surface absorbs paint easily and requires little to no drying. Holds the image as securely as possible even when exposed to moisture and liquids
Show All Items in Matte Category
Size: A4
EPSON Ultra Glossy Photo Paper A4 nine0223
Glossy / For Epson / For printers / Size: A4
*from user reviews
Read more about EPSON Ultra Glossy Photo Paper A4 (photo paper) nine0003
Starting price:
Highlights
- Although the photo paper is made specifically for Epson, it is versatile enough to fit most printer models
- Glossy base protects the ink from UV rays.
Even after a long period of time, the color does not fade and retains its contrast - Resin base ideal for both pigmented and water-based inks
- Ultra Gloss White gives colors vibrant hues and depth, making them suitable for semi-professional and professional photography
- Since the structure easily withstands high temperatures, it is possible to laminate
Show all items in category "Size: A4"
Size: 10x15
Lomond 0102034 10x15
For Canon / For Epson / For printers / Matte / Size: 10x15
*from user reviews
Read more about Lomond 0102034 10x15 (photo paper) nine0003
Minimum price:
Highlights
- The embossed microstructure of the paper helps to evenly scatter light, which ensures a rich tone of all colors
- Matte photo paper does not glare, thereby reducing eye strain.
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