Breathtaking expressiveness. The unique value that photographic printing on washi paper brings to artworks

Ordinary photo prints just aren't enough.
I want to give my work a depth and warmth that is unlike anything else, and a unique presence.

To all creators with such a spirit of inquiry, we at PHOTOPRI confidently recommend "printing photos on washi paper." The fusion of washi paper, a traditional Japanese material with over a thousand years of history, and modern, cutting-edge printing technology elevates your work from a mere record to a tangible work of art.

In this article, we will introduce in detail, along with examples, the secret behind why so many artists are now fascinated by washi prints, the appeal of photo printing on the highly acclaimed Awa washi paper , and the types of works that are best suited to washi paper.

(Replace with printed version)

Each fiber of the washi paper contains light and ink, breathing life into the artwork.

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Why do artists choose "Washi"? Three attractions

The unique properties of washi paper are completely different from those of ordinary photographic paper, which creates unexpected chemical reactions in the artwork and deeply impacts the viewer's heart.

1. Unique texture and warmth: The surface of washi paper is made up of intertwined long fibers, and no two pieces are the same. Its natural unevenness absorbs ink softly, creating a warmth and rich texture that cannot be found in digital data.
2. Soft gradation and deep blacks: Washi paper diffuses light softly, resulting in soft highlights and soft, well-defined shadows. This is especially true for monochrome photography, where smooth, beautiful gradation and deep, deep blacks can be achieved.
3. Ink that becomes one with the artwork: While glossy paper places ink on the surface, washi paper allows the ink to penetrate deep into the fibers. This allows the ink to become one with the paper itself, resulting in a natural, deep finish that seems as if the color was there from the beginning.

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Perfect for Japanese paper prints! Recommended examples by genre

"Would my work be suitable for washi paper?" We will answer that question with concrete examples. These are genres where the characteristics of washi paper can be best utilized.

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PHOTOPRI's selection of "Awa Washi" - a fusion of tradition and innovation

At PHOTOPRI, we use the world-famous Awa Washi paper from Tokushima Prefecture as the medium for our washi prints. Our AIJP (Awagami Inkjet Paper), which inherits the tradition of 1,300 years of history while being optimized for modern inkjet printers, has been highly praised by artists both in Japan and abroad.

While maintaining the texture of traditional Japanese paper, it achieves a quality that allows for the long-term preservation of photographs and artworks. Its quality is so high that it is used in the collections of famous art museums overseas.

By combining this "Awa Washi" with our 2880dpi ultra-high definition giclee printing technology and the faithful color reproduction of RGB direct printing , we can create the highest quality washi photo prints that you won't find anywhere else.

Awa Washi lineup available on PHOTOPRI

*Please check the price list page for the latest prices.

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Comparing the advantages and disadvantages of paper selection

While each has its own merits, they also have areas in which they excel and areas in which they are not so good at expressing things. Please check the comparison table and sample images.

■ Enjoy the change in color

Red is a color that is often seen in typical Japanese landscapes.

The vermilion of shrines and temples, the red of autumn leaves, and the reddish-orange of sunsets.

It's a very attractive scene, but the colors tend to change when you try to recreate it on washi paper. Rather than being faithful to the original data, it might be best to enjoy it as a kind of filter.

(Photo of the shrine)

・[Awa Washi] Bamboo Washi 170g/m2

This is a paper that produces a relatively strong red color.

・Thick white mulberry paper

This one has a very orange color to it.

- Kozo thick paper, natural

Combined with the yellow of the background, it gives off a stronger orange feel.

・Unryu Light White

■ Enjoy the texture of the paper

Monochrome (photo of lily)

One of the charms of washi paper is that you can enjoy its transparency and texture!

・[Awa Washi] Bamboo Washi 170g/m2

The paper is very white, so the contrast is quite clear.

・Thick white mulberry paper

The rough texture gives the light grey areas an exquisite texture.

- Kozo thick paper, natural

The light grey part looks a little brownish.

Monochrome artwork can be finished in colors other than black and white.

・Unryu Light White

The background and light gray areas allow light to pass through.

It's a fantastic finish!

■ Enjoying paper textures ②

I want to create a unique portrait finish!

For those people, I would definitely recommend trying printing with washi paper.

Below is a summary of the advantages and disadvantages in table form.

Please use the sample images above as a reference when choosing your paper!

	merit	Disadvantages
[Awa Washi] Bamboo Washi 170g/m2	High color reproducibility. The paper base is solid white.	The texture of washi paper is subdued
Kozo thick white paper	Powerful expression is possible. It adds a rough texture.	Colors such as red are prone to change
Kozo thick paper, natural	It gives an antique feel. It adds a rough texture.	Poor color reproduction
Unryu Light White	The finished product has a Japanese paper-like feel. It has a sheer feel.	It is thinner than other paper, so handle larger sizes with care.

Summary: Reach heights of expression that cannot be achieved with ordinary paper.

Printing photographs on washi paper is not just a printing process. It is a creative activity that infuses the work with traditional Japanese beauty and warmth, and allows you to discover new value.

If you are looking for new possibilities in your artistic expression, we recommend you try PHOTOPRI's washi prints. When every fiber of the paper absorbs the ink and is enveloped in light, you will surely be moved like never before.

First, try a "trial print" using your own data. See for yourself the feel, texture, and compatibility with your work.

Check out PHOTOPRI's washi printing service

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Related keywords

• Washi print
• Photo printing
• Awa washi paper
• Art prints
• Black and white photography
• Illustration Printing
• Giclee print
• Fine Art
• Work production
• Inkjet Washi