Printing Photos At Home – A Quick Guide To Photo Paper

In this modern world that’s becoming more and more digital centric, it’s easy to get lost. We have digital cameras, digital photo albums, and digital versions of pretty much everything else.

When it comes to printing, whether it’s photographs, greeting cards, or downloadable prints, it’s easy to forget about the subtleties. Although for a time deciding on which type of photo paper to use was simple, nowadays there’s a plethora of papers to choose from and without a basic understanding it can be a little daunting.

That’s why we decided to put together a quick guide touching on some of the more popular types of paper used in photo printing so that hopefully, the next time you buy paper for your project you can be confident in your decision.

The Basics of Photo Printing Paper

One of the first things you should consider when purchasing photo paper is how you want the picture to look. Almost all manufactures make paper specially to modern inkjet photo printers and the quality of the picture will depend on the printer. It’s important to keep that in mind because regardless of the brand of paper you print with, the printer can be just as impactful.

The first consideration in photo printing is the paper thickness. Thicker papers usually last longer, appear cleaner, and provide less opportunity for the ink to bleed through the back. Additionally, the thickness of any given photo paper is directly related to the caliper. Since photos require a lot of ink, a general recommendation is to go with a higher caliper which ensures the image will be absorbed completely.

Also, “quick dry” papers which are very porous can be more convenient, however, it may lead to your pictures fading faster over time. For this reason, one should try and stick with non-porous photo paper whenever possible for longer lasting photos.

Last but not least, you need to consider brightness when choosing a photo paper. A paper’s brightness refers to the relation to “true white” which is measured on a scale from 1-100. A higher brightness number means the more white the paper. The best way to compare the brightness of different photo papers is to hold them up next to each other for a side to side perspective.

Choosing the Finish

There are really three main types of finishes on photo paper which are glossy, matte and luster. Like most comparisons there are pros and cons to both glossy and matte photo paper. Each will be better suited based on personal preference as well as what you are hoping to achieve.

Glossy paper is what most people find at the local photo shop. This paper is highly reflective and shiny and can often take longer to dry than matte prints because of its glossy coating. Glossy paper usually has one printable side, and one non-coated side.

Matte paper results in photographs looking smoother and with less reflected light. Matte papers are normally more thick and dry quicker than glossy photo paper. Although, many photographers feel that the contrast is lower with a matte paper. This paper, however, often features dual-sided printing options.

The best way to choose between matte and glossy is to buy samples of both from a local or only photo supply store and print using both. This way you can see which one you personally prefer since there is no real technical reason for choosing one over the other.

Choosing a photo paper doesn’t have to be a hassle. Between the various finishes, qualities, and manufacturers, you are bound to come across something you love. Even if you can’t make a decision, hopefully this quick guide to photo paper gave you a better idea of what’s out there.

 

  • Todd Sumamno

    Todd is a seasoned writer and journalist with a passion for exploring the intersection of technology and design. With over a decade of experience in the industry, he has established himself as a trusted voice in the tech and design communities. Todd's writing career began in the early 2000s, when he started contributing to various online publications and blogs. He quickly gained a reputation for his ability to break down complex technical concepts into engaging and accessible language, making him a go-to writer for tech companies and startups looking to communicate their ideas to a wider audience. In recent years, Todd has focused on writing about the latest trends and innovations in the tech and design spaces. He has covered everything from artificial intelligence and machine learning to user experience (UX) design and human-computer interaction. His writing has appeared in a range of publications, including major tech websites, design magazines, and industry-specific journals. Todd's writing style is characterized by his ability to balance technical accuracy with engaging storytelling. He is known for his ability to distill complex ideas into clear and concise language, making him a favorite among readers who are looking for in-depth analysis and insight into the latest tech and design trends. When he's not writing, Todd can be found attending industry conferences and events, where he stays up-to-date on the latest developments in the tech and design worlds. He is also an avid user of new technologies and loves to experiment with new tools and platforms. Overall, Todd is a highly respected and experienced writer who is dedicated to helping readers understand the latest trends and innovations in the tech and design spaces. His writing is informative, engaging, and always insightful, making him a valuable resource for anyone looking to stay ahead of the curve in these rapidly evolving fields.

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