A professional compares the difference between glossy photo paper and photographic paper!

My name is Matsumura , and I am the CEO of PHOTOPRI, a large-format printing service offering exhibition-quality printing.

Numerous photos taken with single-lens reflex cameras and smartphones.

There are probably many people who would like to try printing, but are confused by the sheer number of different types of paper available.

Just understanding the different types can be a struggle. Different manufacturers call them by different names, and different people recommend different types of paper, so some people may have had trouble deciding which one to use.

Among the many types of photo paper available, this time we will compare "glossy paper" and "photographic paper" and summarize the differences between them.

We also introduce the papers available at PHOTOPRI, so you can try out A5 size prints using your own data!

Seeing is believing, so if you have time, order a trial print and take a look!

What is glossy paper?

Glossy paper is commonly known as photo paper.

It has a smooth texture and a glossy surface, giving it a lustrous look.

Also, even though it is called glossy paper, there are various types depending on the processing , such as gloss, semi-gloss, soft gloss, high gloss, fine grain gloss (luster), etc.

Many manufacturers offer a wide range of glossy finishes with various coatings.

Since glossy paper has a coated surface, it tends to produce a crisp, luxurious finish.

What is photographic paper?

Photographic paper primarily refers to paper for silver halide printing.
It contains a light-sensitive emulsion that is used to develop the film images taken with a film camera.

(In recent years, paper used for photographic printing is sometimes collectively called "photographic paper," but in this article, photographic paper is defined as "paper coated with photosensitive emulsion, used for film developing in a darkroom.")

There are two types of photographic paper: RC (Rasin Coating) paper and baryta paper.

RC paper is a photographic paper made by coating a base paper on both sides with polyethylene resin, and then applying a photosensitive emulsion and a protective film.

Baryta paper is a thick photographic paper made by coating a baryta layer on the base paper, then coating it with a photosensitive emulsion and protective film. It is characterized by the whiteness of the highlights and high reflectivity, which allows for rich gradation expression in monochrome prints, and a beautiful finish with deep blacks. Another advantage is the beauty of the depiction due to its unique fine texture.

Glossy paper is a type of processing, so I think it's fair to say that any paper that has a glossy look can be considered glossy paper.

Within the glossy paper category is photographic paper.

To put it simply, it's easy to imagine that within the glossy paper category there are "inkjet glossy paper" and "photographic paper."

Inkjet paper recommended for those with experience in silver halide printing

"PHOTOPRI" uses an inkjet printer for printing, but from the papers we accept orders for, we would like to introduce two types of paper that are recommended for those who have experience with silver halide printing!

[Hahnemuhle] Photo Rag Baryta

[Hahnemuhle] Photo Rag Baryta

Photorag Baryta, as the name suggests, is an inkjet paper that reproduces the look of baryta photographic paper.

The paper is 0.39mm thick, which is thicker than general inkjet glossy paper (Epson's Pro Photo series is 0.27mm), and has a heavy feel to it, combining the advantages of traditional baryta paper and high-quality cotton paper.

The surface has a slight, fine texture, and the delicate surface quality and sheen of the baryta make it particularly suitable for portraits, allowing you to create expressive works.

[EPSON] Professional Photo Paper, Thick, Silky

[EPSON] Professional Photo Paper, Thick, Silky

The paper has a finely grained surface and is 0.27mm thick.

Compared to standard glossy paper such as "Thick Gloss" , which is smooth, the finished work has a slightly more subdued impression. However, it still retains a glossy feel. The glossiness is also subdued, so it does not affect the viewing of the work.

This paper gives photos a moist look and is excellent at expressing the texture of human skin . I think it will perform at a high level indoors, regardless of the lighting.

This paper is also often chosen by professionals, so it's a surefire choice.

• [EPSON] Professional Photo Paper, Thick, Silky <Go to product page>
• [EPSON] Professional Photo Paper, Thick, Silky <Staff Review>

Test Print

We believe that you will be more satisfied if you compare multiple papers using a single photo data and get a feel for the characteristics and atmosphere of the paper before placing your order. Furthermore, by keeping the paper samples on hand, you can make good use of them when you place another order.

Please use this as a reassurance when using "PHOTOPRI".

Test print here

summary

What did you think?

If you are unsure which one to choose, we recommend the highly versatile "glossy paper."

Whether glossy or silky, the "glossy feel" that each has makes photos stand out more and gives them a luxurious look.

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