Article: [Printing] The appeal of ILFORD FineArt Smooth Pearl
[Printing] The appeal of ILFORD FineArt Smooth Pearl
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PHOTOPRI（フォトプリ）
プロ品質の写真プリントサービス
「PHOTOPRI（フォトプリ）」は、写真展クオリティのプリントを提供する専門店です。一枚一枚の色を丁寧に調整し、30種類以上の用紙から最適なものを提案。あなたの作品が持つ魅力を最大限に引き出すお手伝いをします。大切な作品を、最高の形で残しませんか？
The true value of ILFORD FineArt Smooth Pearl: the expression deepens between gloss and matte.
The texture of light and shadow. This paper allows for such delicate expression.
"How can I best convey the texture of this piece?"
It's a question that all creators will likely encounter at some point. Now, in an age where digital expression is everywhere, the "materiality" of a physical print is an important factor in determining the value of a work.
Among the many art papers available, there is one that has earned the special trust of photographers and artists: ILFORD FineArt Smooth Pearl 270gsm . This is more than just a glossy paper. The surface with ink on it has a different appearance than the surface with ink underneath, making it a fine art paper with a unique expressive power that enriches the work.
This time, we will explain the characteristics of this paper with examples.
Furthermore, TAKEO's "Vent Nouveau" ( We would be happy to help you choose the right paper by comparing it with other paper types (not available at PHOTOPRI).
What is ILFORD FineArt Smooth Pearl? - A print result that combines matte and pearlescent colors
The greatest feature of this paper can be summed up in one word: the harmony between paper and ink. The key to unlocking this true nature lies in two elements.
The base is "smooth matte paper"
First of all, the foundation of this paper is its high-quality matte paper. Made from 100% alpha cellulose, which is made from high-purity wood pulp, the base is thick (420 microns) and rigid, yet its surface is surprisingly smooth. The moment you pick it up, you'll feel the tranquil elegance of traditional fine art paper.
The pearlescent luster that appears only where the ink is applied
And now the magic begins. The moment the ink spits out of the printer and hits this matte base, a subtle, elegant pearlescent sheen is born in that area, as if glowing from within. The white highlights remain matte, but the areas with color and shadow develop a beautiful sheen. This unique characteristic gives the print an astonishing three-dimensionality and depth.
This subtle yet beautiful sheen, which appears only where there is ink, breathes life into the work.
One artist has likened this paper to the 19th century photographic technique of "albumen print," signifying that the print itself has material value, like a craft, rather than simply reproducing an image.
A unique dual surface that manipulates light
This is due to the design of the coating layer that accepts the ink. The ink pigments remain near the surface of the paper, while the components that create the gloss cover the surface along with the ink. As a result, the highlights (the white part of the paper) are matte and absorb light, while the shadows (the ink areas) reflect light with a pearlescent sheen , the exact opposite of what happens with regular paper.
This fine art paper is truly worthy of being a work of art, as the print results change appearance with each change of light angle.
This effect makes blacks sink deeper and gives colors a moist, wet sheen, creating an overwhelming sense of three-dimensionality and depth in prints. Particularly in monochrome photography, this characteristic brings out rich gradations in the dark areas, creating dramatic shadows.
What does "270gsm and 420 microns" mean?
The first thing that strikes you when you pick it up is its solid thickness and rigidity. The basis weight (weight of the paper) is 270 gsm, but the thickness is 420 microns (0.42 mm) . This is much thicker than typical papers of the same basis weight. Why?
The reason for this is the high-purity alpha cellulose that is the base material. This is wood pulp from which all impurities have been thoroughly removed, and although it is fibrous, it has a structure that contains a lot of air. Therefore, when you pick it up, it has a unique feeling of being "solid, but lighter than it looks." This light rigidity gives your work a certain dignity.
The thickness of 420 microns gives the piece a solid presence, physically supporting the value of the artwork.
ILFORD FineArt Smooth Pearl or TAKEO Van Nouveau
In the world of art paper, there is surely no creator who has not heard of "Vent Nouveau." Its warm texture and excellent printability make it a favorite among many designers and illustrators. What is the difference between this paper and ILFORD FineArt Smooth Pearl?
This isn't a comparison of superiority or inferiority. The important thing is which one resonates with your worldview.
Philosophy of Expression: Harmony's "Vent Nouveau" or Drama's "Ilford"
Based on the concept of "rough gloss," TAKEO Van Nouveau combines the rough texture of the paper with the gentle gloss of the printed surface. The ink blends in harmoniously with the warmth of the paper, creating a calm, unified finish overall. Graphic designs look comfortable on the paper, and the text is easy to read. It can truly be called "paper made for design."
On the other hand, ILFORD FineArt Smooth Pearl is a base color as mentioned above. This paper creates drama through the contrast between the surface and the ink surface. The matte white of the paper and the gloss of the ink. This high contrast strongly attracts the viewer's attention. It was created to meet the strict demands of photographic work, particularly in the pursuit of high-quality images, such as "deep blacks" and "clear highlights." Its character is more strongly that of a "paper for artwork."
| Comparison axis | ILFORD FineArt Smooth Pearl | TAKEO Vannuovo |
|---|---|---|
| Direction of expression | High contrast and dramatic | Warm, calming tones |
| Specialty genre | Photography (especially black and white), art reproductions, digital art | Photo books, graphic designs, illustrations, books, packaging, business cards |
| Surface texture | Smooth matte finish with a dignified feel and weight | Soft, rough and warm to the touch |
| Print surface gloss | Clear and sharp pearlescent ink | A gentle and subdued gloss on the printed surface |
| White impression | Neutral and bright white | Natural and gentle whiteness (depending on the type) |
Which paper is best for your work?
- If you want to print graphic or illustration posters or light productions , Van Nouveau would be the best choice, as it has the lowest unit price in the industry and a subdued feel.
- If you want to explore the contrast between light and shadow, directly express the power of photography, or give your work an overwhelming sense of three-dimensionality and elegance , ILFORD FineArt Smooth Pearl will meet your needs for a truly beautiful piece of work.
At PHOTOPRI, we always have ILFORD FineArt Smooth Pearl available as the latter option, in order to help photographers and artists realize the passion they have for that one photograph, but we do not carry Vent Nouveau.
Create a work with "FineArt Smooth Pearl"
PHOTOPRI brings out the true value of FineArt Smooth Pearl
To fully realize the potential of such unique paper, the printing process requires the same level of attention to detail. Why is PHOTOPRI so confident in its handling of this paper? The reason lies in the technology at the core of our service.
- Ultra-high-resolution printing at 2880 x 1440 dpi: The fine texture of this paper is rendered at such high resolution that the ink grain is barely perceptible. The boundary between the pearlescent glow in the shadows and the matte texture of the highlights is rendered with infinite smoothness.
- Wide color gamut RGB direct printing: The color world captured with a digital camera or precisely adjusted on a monitor is faithfully reproduced on paper without being lost through CMYK conversion. In particular, the luster that appears in the deep colors is a vividness that is unique to RGB printing.
- Genuine Epson ink and optimal profile: Based on years of experience, color management is thoroughly optimized for the combination of this paper and genuine Epson ink. Based on the manufacturer's profile, we sometimes make further adjustments to accurately bring out the colors and textures intended by the artist.
All of these skills and experience are poured into making your work the best it can be. For more information, please see our commitment to service .
As if we were having a conversation with each and every piece of paper, we will respond to your expression with the best technology.
What kind of work is this paper best suited for?
At PHOTOPRI, we especially recommend ILFORD FineArt Smooth Pearl to those who want to print the following types of works:
Monochrome works that emphasize the expression of light and shadow
Many artists agree that this paper is ideal for monochrome reproduction. The combination of the deep, deep black of the matte black ink and the subtle sheen that resides only in the shadows gives the dark areas of the image incredible depth and three-dimensionality without the strong reflections that can be found on glossy paper. Imagine your monochrome work bathed in light at an exhibition venue, changing its appearance. The beauty is exceptional.
Film-like and classic photography
This paper is also excellent for works that require the emotional expression and nuances of color, such as those found in film, or for works with sepia tones. The matte base adds warmth, while the gloss of the ink adds depth, creating a nostalgic yet sophisticated impression that doesn't feel dated.
Photography as a work of art
We want to see prints that are not just records, but works of art in themselves. We would like artists with such a strong will to try out this paper. Its unique texture and presence physically enhance the value of the work and have the power to arouse the viewer's desire to own it.
ILFORD FineArt Smooth Pearl tends to lose its color, so it is not suitable for commercial printing, such as food photography or architectural photography, which require precise color.
This is recommended for those who enjoy the flavor that the paper used to print their work brings out in the finished product.
Pricing and Ordering Information
At PHOTOPRI, we want as many artists as possible to experience the charm of this high-quality fine art paper. Below is a price list for the most popular sizes.
| size | Price (tax included) |
|---|---|
| A4 (210×297mm) | ¥2,050 |
| A3 (297×420mm) | ¥3,710 |
| A2 (420×594mm) | ¥5,530 |
| A1 (594×841mm) | ¥9,580 |
For prices of other sizes, please see the price list page .
The best finish possible with PHOTOPRI
Printing on this unique paper requires specialized knowledge and skills in the printing process. Why can we at PHOTOPRI confidently say that our services can bring out the true value of this paper? Let us explain why.
- Ultra-high-resolution printing at 2880 x 1440 dpi: The fine texture of the paper surface is depicted at such high resolution that the ink grain is barely perceptible. This ensures that the boundaries between the matte and pearlescent areas are seamlessly connected, creating a natural and powerful three-dimensional effect.
- Wide color gamut RGB direct printing: While Vannuovo primarily assumes printing in CMYK, we print in the RGB color mode, which is standard for photography and art production. This allows the vivid colors and deep gradations expressed digitally to be reproduced on paper without losing them.
- Tips for creating your data: To take advantage of the characteristics of this paper, we recommend using matte black ink. Also, when creating your data, adjusting the contrast slightly higher will make the shadows more defined and the highlights more radiant. If you have any questions, please refer to our data submission guide or feel free to contact us .
The final step in completing a work: framing
A printed work is complete only when it is framed. The dignity of this paper pairs perfectly with a simple, high-quality frame. Whether it's an aluminum frame with a minimalist, modern look or a wooden frame with a solid, classic feel, your work will be perfectly displayed.
Framing is also part of the artwork. We will suggest the best frame to suit your worldview.
Conclusion: Try it for yourself first
ILFORD FineArt Smooth Pearl may not be for everyone, but for photographers and other creative professionals who deeply explore light and shadow and wish to give their work a sense of substance and dignity, there is no better paper than this.
No matter how much we try to describe it, the true appeal of this paper cannot be conveyed until you actually touch it. PHOTOPRI offers a " trial print " that lets you check the actual finish using your data, as well as " all paper samples " (excluding Vent Nouveau) that let you compare various papers at hand.
Experience this unique expressive power with your own eyes and hands. You're sure to be inspired to create something new.
Learn more about PHOTOPRI's high-quality print services
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PHOTOPRI（フォトプリ）
プロ品質の写真プリントサービス
「PHOTOPRI（フォトプリ）」は、写真展クオリティのプリントを提供する専門店です。一枚一枚の色を丁寧に調整し、30種類以上の用紙から最適なものを提案。あなたの作品が持つ魅力を最大限に引き出すお手伝いをします。大切な作品を、最高の形で残しませんか？
