As someone who loves to capture memories through photography, you know there’s nothing quite like the feeling of holding your favorite snapshots in your hands. Thanks to modern technology, you can print your own photos at home.
It may seem like a tiny detail, but the type of paper you print your photos on can impact the overall look a lot. From glossy to matte, textured to smooth, the options are endless. However, not all papers are equal. Let’s dive into some of the critical factors you need to consider when choosing the right paper for your photo printing.
Types of Paper
Before we talk about how to choose the right paper for your photo printing, let’s get a better idea of what your choices are. The most common photo papers are glossy, satin, and matte.
Glossy paper is known for a high gloss finish and vibrant colors, while matte paper produces a more subdued finish and softer colors. As the name suggests, satin paper is somewhere in between glossy and matte. It has a slight gloss, producing brighter colors, but it isn’t as susceptible to fingerprints as glossy paper.
If you want photos that really pop, glossy or satin paper are your best bets. However, if there are any words or text in your photos, the high shine of glossy paper can make it difficult to read in some angles and lighting. I printed my twins school photos below on satin, but thats just a matter of preference for me.
Paper Weight
The weight of your paper won’t necessarily affect the overall look of your photo, but it will affect its durability and how professional the finished product feels. Typically, photography papers are between 50 to 300 gsm (grams per square meter).
The higher the number, the thicker the paper, and the thicker the paper you choose, the more durable the print will be and the more professional it’ll look. Keep in mind that not all printers can handle every weight. Using the wrong weight is a common but easily avoidable printing mistake, so be sure to check your printer’s settings before you make a final decision!
Surface Texture
Different papers have different surface textures, which can significantly impact the look and feel of your prints. Textured paper is available in various surface textures, such as luster, canvas, and silk. Some are smooth, while others have a texture that mimics traditional darkroom paper.
Textured papers are great for adding depth and character to your prints, while smooth surfaces are ideal for sharp and detailed images. There’s really no right or wrong option here, and it all depends on what your personal style preferences are, so feel free to experiment with different textures!
Archival Quality
One of the most vital aspects of paper is its archival quality. That sounds fancy, but it just refers to how resistant the paper is to fading and retaining its original condition, even after sitting for a long time. This is the kind of paper you want to select if you have photos you want to keep for generations, such as baby pictures or wedding photos.
Look for papers that have undergone testing longevity, typically indicated by an “archival” or “acid-free” label. Just keep in mind that you’ll have to pay a premium for the highest quality of archival paper.
Choosing the right paper for your photo printing is ultimately a personal choice. Test prints are your best friends, so don’t be afraid to try different types of paper to see which one delivers the look and feel you want for your photos!
Until Next Time…
Stay Crafty San Diego!
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