[Differences in paper] Thorough comparison of 4 types of paper: matte paper, glossy paper, silky paper, and Japanese paper!

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

Even if you want to try printing on photo paper, there are probably many people who are confused by the variety of paper types available.

Just figuring out the types can be a challenge.

Some of you may have had the experience of not being able to make a decision because different manufacturers have different names, and different people recommend different types of paper.

When it comes to photo paper, there are four common types: matte paper, photographic paper (glossy), photographic paper (silk grain), and Japanese paper.

In this article, we will compare these four types and summarize the differences in the finish of each paper.

The comparison this time was limited to some representative papers from the papers available at PHOTOPRI.

*Please wait as we will update articles regarding other paper features in due course.

We have also created an article about ``paper for printing photos,'' so if you have time, please refer to it.

I tried printing it.

A. Matte paper… [EPSON] PX Premium Matte Paper

High-quality matte paper with the widest color reproduction among Epson's genuine matte papers. The thickness is 0.25mm .

This paper has a smooth feel and a simple appearance.

Among matte papers, this paper has a wide range of color reproduction, giving it a "soft" impression.

When you think of matte paper, some people may think of paper that is rough, but premium matte paper has a smooth surface texture and good color adhesion.

Of course, since it's matte paper, the result will be a more subdued photo compared to glossy photo paper.

Premium matte paper is also good at creating retro and emotional effects, so this calmness is suitable for classical photos.

*Matte paper is basically susceptible to "rubbing" after printing.

Like other papers, it is a paper that must be handled with great care.

If you have ordered printing on matte paper, please be careful when opening the package.

[epson] px premium matte paper <Go to product page>

B. Photographic paper (glossy)…[EPSON] Professional photo paper thick glossy

Highly glossy paper that uses RC paper (resin coat = synthetic resin coat).

The thickness is 0.27mm.

To put it simply, it is a ``smooth and shiny'' paper.

You can turn your photos into works with a rich feel.

As a side note, even the slightest scratch on this paper is noticeable, so we put even more effort into checking it.

Since it is paper for professional use, the images are beautiful and can be described as "as expected."

Many people use it for printing on special occasions, such as solo exhibitions by professional photographers and artists.

[EPSON] Profoto Paper Thick Gloss <Go to product page>

C. Photographic paper (silk grain)… [EPSON] Professional photo paper thick silk grain

Paper with a fine grained surface. The thickness is 0.27mm.

Compared to ``photographic paper (glossy),'' this paper gives the finished work a slightly more subdued impression, but it still retains its luster.

The glossiness is also suppressed, so photos are easy to see.

This paper, which makes photos moisturized, perfectly expresses the feel of human skin.

If indoors, I think it will demonstrate a high level of performance regardless of brightness.

This paper is also often chosen by professional users, so it's a sure-fire choice.

[EPSON] Profoto Paper Thick Silk Texture <Go to product page>

We also have a paper called Fine Grain Raster from Canon that has the same silky texture.

This paper is also very popular among silky papers, and is also used in photo exhibitions.

Regarding the "difference between silk grain and fine grain surface", which is a particularly common question from customers, we have summarized the article below that covers EPSON's thick silk grain and Canon fine grain surface raster, so please take a look. !

[What is the difference between silky and fine-grained surfaces? ]

D. Washi… [Awa Washi] Kozo thick white

Paper made using an ancient manufacturing method called "Japanese paper". The thickness is 0.23mm.

Awa washi paper has a gentle texture and a rustic texture.

The paper itself is so dignified that you can feel its tradition just by touching it.

Although it is thinner than other papers, it is still durable enough to resist tearing easily.

When printed, it has a calm finish similar to matte paper.

However, what is different is the ``simplicity''. Is it because of the paper that it feels nostalgic?

If you print illustrations with Japanese designs or photographs that give you a Japanese feel using Awa washi paper, you can elevate your work to a higher level.

[Awa Washi] Kozo thick white <Go to product page>

Results of printing on 4 types of paper

1. If you want vivid colors, use photographic paper (glossy) or photographic paper (silky)

Photographic paper (glossy) and photographic paper (silky) have excellent gradation expression and high image quality reproduction.

The colors are very vivid and the photos are sparkling.

If you print on glossy paper, it will look more impressive, so I think photos of landscapes and large buildings will be even more polished.

Many people who order printing actually use this photographic paper (glossy). Of course, you have to choose paper according to the purpose, but it is a paper that can be used for general purposes.

2. If you are aiming for a gentle texture, use matte paper

Matte paper has a subdued finish like premium matte paper or art paper, and while it may not be as flashy as glossy paper, its elegance still catches the eye.

For example, if you want to reproduce gentle colors such as pastel colors, you can faithfully print that atmosphere.

I'm sure it will do a good job for those who want to add a touch of ``emotionality'' to their photos of nature or cityscapes.

3. Silky tone for elegant beauty and gradation expression

Slightly glossy photographic paper (silk grain) does not have an overly glossy appearance, giving the photo a moist finish. Because the surface of the paper is fine-grained, it creates a three-dimensional effect in photos.

It's a paper that suits words such as "luxury" and "elegance."

Personally, I think it's perfect for portrait photography.

This paper, which gives a more realistic and gentle feel to human skin, cannot be left out as an option.

4. Japanese paper that feels simple and nostalgic

Just like photographic paper (silk grain), Japanese paper is also described as ``elegant''.

It is perfect for photos that have a Japanese taste.

For example, it will blend seamlessly into new posters displayed at Japanese restaurants such as kaiseki cuisine.

However, the reproducibility of the image quality of Japanese paper and matte paper is slightly lower than that of photographic paper, so it can be said that they are suitable for photos that emphasize atmosphere.

5. Recommendations for “PHOTOPRI”

If you can't decide between the four types introduced this time, we recommend the highly versatile photographic paper.

Whether it's glossy or silky, the ``gloss'' that each type has makes the photo stand out and gives it a luxurious feel.

About trial printing

I think you will be more satisfied if you compare multiple sheets of paper using a single photo and get a feel for the characteristics and atmosphere of the paper before ordering the book, and it is a good idea to keep them on hand as paper samples. I think you can use it effectively when ordering again.

Please use this as a peace of mind when using "PHOTOPRI"!

Click here for trial printing