[How to choose photo paper] Choosing paper that brings out the appeal of your work

Smartphone cameras have improved in performance, making it easy for anyone to take high-quality photos. However, the experience of printing out a wonderful photograph on paper offers a deeper feeling that is different from viewing it on a digital screen. Taking your favorite photograph in your hands and taking the time to look at it closely will surely create a new dialogue with the work.

The ease of sharing on social media is one of its attractions, but by "daring to print," the surprise captured through the lens, the dazzling moment emitted by the subject, and the warmth of everyday life will stand out even more. It will be a special experience that will add color and depth to your life.

However, when it comes to actually printing photos, many people are overwhelmed by the sheer number of options available.

• "There are so many types of photo paper, I don't know which one to choose..."
• What is the difference between glossy paper, matte paper, and photographic paper?
• What kind of paper is best for my work?
• "What paper do you recommend for prints for an exhibition?"

We at PHOTOPRI often receive concerns like these. In this article, we will explain in detail from a professional perspective the main types of paper used for photo printing, their respective characteristics, and the key points to consider when choosing the best paper for your purpose and project. We will also introduce the specific papers we carry at PHOTOPRI, so please use this as a reference.

(Some of the papers explained here are currently under consideration for handling, and some are listed to introduce their characteristics. Please check the paper list page for the latest lineup.)

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Main types and characteristics of photo printing paper

The finished look of photo paper varies greatly depending on its material and surface treatment. Here we will look at the most common types of paper, their characteristics, and their suitable uses.

PHOTOPRI offers a wide variety of photo papers to support your creative expression.

Photographic paper (RC paper): Texture and preservation unique to photographs

Photographic paper is recommended for those seeking a professional finish similar to that of silver halide photography.

While photographic paper has traditionally been used for developing silver halide photographs, in recent years high-quality "RC (resin coated) based" photographic paper has also appeared for inkjet printers. RC-based photographic paper is coated on both sides with resin, which reduces ink bleeding and ensures sharp images and excellent durability. Another feature is that the degree of gloss can be adjusted by processing the resin layer on the surface.

Baryta-based photographic paper is also popular for printing authentic black-and-white photographs and fine art works. The baryta base layer allows for deep blacks and rich gradation, and its unique, fine texture gives the work a sense of depth.

Matte paper: A subdued texture and fingerprint resistance

Matte paper reduces light reflection, giving your work a subdued look.

Matte paper is paper with a matte coating on the surface. It reduces light reflection, making it easy to read from any angle and less susceptible to fingerprints. It is suitable for creating a calm atmosphere or a soft, gentle expression, and is often used for illustrations, classical photographs, and designs with a lot of text.

Glossy paper: Vivid colors and high contrast

Glossy paper is the most commonly known type of photo paper. Its smooth surface and high gloss result in vivid color reproduction and a sharp, high-contrast finish. It is ideal for commemorative photos, landscape photos, snapshots, and other occasions where you want to highlight the beauty of the colors. Its luxurious feel makes it popular for creating albums and as a gift.

Silk finish (Luster/fine grain): elegant semi-gloss finish

Silk-grain paper is a type of glossy paper characterized by a fine, random texture (fine grain) on the surface, resembling silk fabric. It gives your work a soft, elegant finish while maintaining a moderate gloss. It is fingerprint-resistant, and its subdued appearance makes it popular for portraits and photo exhibitions. Many types also have excellent water and light resistance, making them suitable for long-term preservation.

Washi paper: unique texture and warm expression

Washi paper adds depth to your work with its unique texture and warmth.

Washi paper is made using traditional Japanese methods and is appealing for its unique texture, warmth, and the beautiful appearance of its woven fibers. Thin yet durable, many varieties offer excellent long-term storage. PHOTOPRI carries high-quality washi paper, such as "Awa Washi" from Tokushima Prefecture, that is ideal for inkjet printing. Made from materials such as kozo (paper mulberry) and mitsumata (Japanese mulberry), each sheet of washi paper has a unique appearance, adding depth and individuality to your work. It's ideal for expressing a Japanese aesthetic, whether you're creating ink-wash style works, photographs with Japanese motifs, or calligraphy art.

Fine art paper: Museum-quality print and long-lasting durability

Fine art paper, which emerged with the advancement of inkjet printing technology, is a high-quality paper specialized for reproducing fine art works and printing photographs for exhibitions. Its greatest feature is its high level of both "durability" and "texture." It is made from high-quality raw materials such as cotton and alpha cellulose, and is acid-free, so it is less likely to deteriorate over time and can maintain the beauty of your artwork for a long time.

A wide variety of fine art paper is available from internationally acclaimed manufacturers such as Hahnemuhle (Germany), Canson (France), and PICTORICO (Japan), each with its own unique texture, thickness, and color. The range of expression is also extremely wide, with finishes such as matte, glossy, pearlescent, and canvas.

At PHOTOPRI, we place particular emphasis on these fine art papers, emphasizing their rich expressive power and their value in preserving artwork in the best possible condition for a long period of time. We would like to recommend these papers to anyone who wants to exhibit their work in a photography or art exhibition, sell their work, or simply want to preserve their own work in the best possible condition.

In addition to the above, we have a wide variety of other options, such as canvas paper that makes the most of the texture of fabric. Please see our full paper list for details.

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Q&A on choosing the best paper for your project

Q. Are there any recommended thicknesses and types of paper for printing photos?

A. The thickness of the paper affects the ease of handling and luxurious feel of the work.

• General records and snapshots: A thickness of around 0.20mm to 0.23mm is easy to handle and store in an album.
• For photography exhibitions, contests, and sales, we recommend using paper with a thickness of 0.27mm or more. Photographic paper and fine art paper in particular have a luxurious feel and will increase the value of your work.

Recommended paper types for each purpose:

• For photo books, albums, exhibitions, and contest works: If you prioritize beautiful finishes and long-lasting durability, RC-based photographic paper (especially silk-finish) or fine art paper is ideal. The rich gradation and soft texture will enhance your work.
• For digital camera photos, postcards, catalogs, menus, and direct mail, glossy or matte paper is recommended for cost-effectiveness and ease of use. You can choose from vibrant colors or subdued expressions depending on your purpose.

At PHOTOPRI, you can check the thickness of each paper on the details page. Please also check the price list page .

Q. There are so many different types that it's hard to choose...which paper do you recommend?

A. It is best to choose based on the theme of the work and the atmosphere you want to express, but as a rough guideline, the following would be good.

• For those who want both ease of use and professional quality: RC-based photographic paper (especially silk-grain paper )
• For a classic and calm atmosphere: Matte paper
• For vibrant and colorful images: Glossy paper
• For a refined, soft finish without gloss: Silk-like (semi-glossy) paper
• To express a Japanese taste and a fleeting, subtle atmosphere: Washi paper
• For museum-quality print and long-lasting durability: Fine art paper (matte, glossy, pearlescent, etc.)

Although we have listed some recommendations, the most important thing is to see it with your own eyes, touch it with your own hands, and feel the texture and feel of it. Even with the same photo data, the impression of the work can change surprisingly depending on the paper you choose.

Every day, we at PHOTOPRI receive consultations from many customers about paper selection. We understand the uncertainty all too well. This is because each person has different tastes and sensibilities, and the standards for what constitutes the "best photo" are also diverse.

Therefore, at PHOTOPRI, we offer two convenient services for those who are having trouble choosing paper, or who want to carefully determine the best paper for their work.

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No more confusion! PHOTOPRI's "Trial Print" and "All Paper Samples"

1. Test print: Check the finished product using actual data

This service allows you to have your own photo data (up to A5 size) printed on the paper of your choice and delivered to you. By printing the same data on multiple papers and comparing them, you can check the color, texture, and compatibility with your artwork. Keeping the sample on hand will be useful for future artwork.

"I'm curious about the texture of this paper, but will it suit my photos?" Such questions can be answered with a "trial print."

2. All Paper Samples: Compare over 20 types of paper at once

This sample set allows you to actually touch and compare the main papers (over 23 types in total) that PHOTOPRI handles. You can check the texture, thickness, feel, and subtle color of each paper at a glance, allowing you to make a more precise paper selection. This is especially recommended for those considering expensive paper such as fine art paper or large-format printing, as a way to check before ordering.

We believe that by using these services, you can eliminate any worries about paper selection and take the first step toward creating a work that you are truly satisfied with. If you are still unsure, please feel free to contact us . Our experienced staff will support you in choosing the best paper for your work and purpose.

If you have any questions about creating data, please also check the page about submitting data and our FAQ .

Summary: Choose the right paper to take your work to new heights

The world of photo printing paper is deep and filled with a wide variety of options. However, by understanding the characteristics of each paper and choosing the right one for your own work and the image you want to express, you can elevate your photographs into even more captivating pieces of art.

At PHOTOPRI, we don't just provide printing services; our mission is to support each and every customer's desire to express their work in the best possible way. We provide strong support for your creative endeavors through our high-quality giclee printing technology , wide selection of paper, and attentive customer support.

Please use this article as a reference and enjoy your journey to find the perfect "photo" for you. Then, why not bring that special photo to life with PHOTOPRI?

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• PHOTOPRI

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