What paper is best to print photos on? What is the best printer paper?

In order to get bright, juicy and highest quality digital photographs, it is not enough to use the appropriate equipment (camera and printing machine). No matter how important these two components are, but, perhaps, one of the most determining roles of those responsible for quality final result, plays a role in the paper used to print photographs. This component is the key factor in obtaining quality digital photos. We’ll talk about it in today’s material.

has a number of properties and parameters that distinguish it in separate class specialized paper products. Thanks to these properties, this type of paper allows you to optimally fix the applied layer of dye, eliminating its leakage, spreading or smearing through or on the surface of the material. Thus, the dye is absorbed and firmly fixed on the surface of the photo paper.

By the way, the quality of the dye itself is the second most important ( after photo paper) part of a vibrant and detailed print. But this is a separate topic for discussion. The fact is that even using mediocre ink ( in the case of inkjet photo printing) on professional photo paper, you will get a satisfactory result. This is achieved by a special multilayer structure of photographic paper, in which each layer is responsible for a specific functional task.

Professional photo paper has at least five structural layers. Most of them are standard for all types of photographic papers, with the exception of the top one, the so-called " reproducing layer"As a rule, the more functional layers used in the manufacture of photographic paper, the more expensive it is. At the same time, the more layers, the denser the paper is not always. These layers can simply be compressed to micron sizes.

Let's take a closer look at the layer structure:

1. Layer layer (the base on which all other layers are laid)
2. Bottom, landing layer (is a fastening element between the laying layer and subsequent functional layers)
3. Polyethylene layer (serves for elasticity and resistance to external factors)
4. Backing paper (the largest layer in the entire photo paper structure)
5. Absorbent layer (absorbs dye moisture)
6. Reproducing layer (this layer depends on the type of paper and its density)

What types of photo paper are there?

There are different types of photographic papers differing mainly in the type of coating, overall density and format. There are also different types of coating ( e.g. satin, microporous, silk, semi-gloss), but are classified into two main subspecies - matte and glossy finish. The density of a photograph is measured in grams per meter. As a rule, the higher the density, the more layers are used in the paper, and, accordingly, the more expensive it is.

Photo Paper Size, determines its standard dimensions. To print amateur photographs in most cases, the format is used 10 by 15 cm. There should be no issues with the thickness and size of the paper. Therefore, let’s take a closer look at the types of photo paper coatings.

Glossy photo paper (Glossy) - this type of coating is easy to distinguish due to its smooth, reflective surface that glares in sunlight. Bright, rich colors with many color shades look especially impressive on this coating. That's why glossy magazines Those using bright, professional photographic images choose this type of paper for printing.

Matte paper - distinctive feature This coating has a surface with a rough, porous texture. Due to its good absorbency, water-soluble ink adheres well to this type of paper, so the colors on this paper are subject to less fading compared to a glossy surface. But the disadvantage can be considered that the color rendition is not so pronounced, in relation to the same glossy photo paper. This is especially noticeable on small image elements.

Semi-Glossy Paper - unlike a glossy surface, it has a slightly less pronounced shine and a less smooth texture. This type of paper eliminates the pros and cons of glossy and matte surfaces, and is a kind of middle alternative, with excellent light fastness and acceptable color rendering. On this type of surface, fingerprints are not as obvious as on a glossy surface, and at the same time, it does not need to be laminated to avoid rapid fading. Suitable for both amateur and professional photo printing

Super-glossy paper - This is a coating with a high gloss content. It features the highest possible color rendition and richness of color shades. Typically used in professional photo printing, and commercial printing, respectively, and is more expensive than other types of paper for printing photographs

Silk paper - the texture of this coating is rather closer to a matte texture, but at the same time, has glossy properties. The images on this paper look as bright and rich as those on a glossy surface, but at the same time this paper is more resistant to external influences. Also, there are practically no fingerprints on this paper, and it does not glare so much in the sun.

Video on the topic:

What paper should I choose for printing photographs?

Having familiarized ourselves with the classification of photographic papers, we can make the erroneous conclusion that if paper with a super-glossy or silk type of surface is more expensive than photographic paper with a matte, satin or semi-gloss finish, therefore these types of papers are best suited for printing. This is not entirely true. Moreover, sometimes having bought what seems to be the most expensive photographic paper, you get a rather mediocre result, sometimes even worse than what you got with the cheapest matte photographic paper. This happens because the printer or printing machine is not initially configured to print taking into account the characteristics of the paper surface type. By setting up a separate profile for the specific combination of photo paper and ink used, you will get beautiful prints that are much better than standard results.

In addition, some types of papers are intended for use only with certain categories of equipment ( minilab, inkjet, laser or sublimation printer). Usually, on the packaging of paper, you can always find markings informing about the category of equipment with which it is used. You will find the same information in the operating instructions for printing equipment in the list of media types for this equipment. Of course, no one will forbid you to use " thermo-sublimation"paper on an inkjet printer, but believe me, the quality of the resulting image will not differ.

Weight and size of paper for printing photographs

Photo paper format, this is essentially its size. On this moment, they are standardized and used throughout the world without modification. The best known and most commonly used of them are the following formats - A6(10 by 15 cm.), A4(21 by 29.7 cm), and A5(14.8 by 21 cm).

Almost 80% of photo printing in existing darkrooms is in the format 10 by 15 cm; And 14.8 by 21 cm. They are also the most popular formats for printing photographs.

As for the density of photo paper, the higher it is, the better. You can get better quality prints on thick paper than on paper with comparative characteristics, but with a less dense consistency. For example, printing photographs can be entrusted to photo paper with a density of 160 to 300 grams per square meter, while for printing text information interspersed with graphics, for example, booklets, presentations, etc.; Paper with a density of 130 g/m2 and higher is perfect.

To print a standard photo 10 by 15 cm; They mainly use paper with a density of 230 - 260 g/m2. When using paper with a thicker consistency, keep in mind that the load on the photo printer’s ribbon transport mechanism increases significantly, which affects its subsequent wear.

Which brand of photo paper is best?

Today it is presented in abundance, and from different manufacturers. Although, it must be said that these manufacturers themselves mainly act as market monopolists, so the competition is not as lively as we would like.

In this regard, perhaps only Chinese manufacturers do not give up and present alternative and quite interesting solutions to the market. In general, the world's main manufacturers of photographic paper can be counted on one hand.

From the first echelon, we can distinguish Epson, Canon, Kodak and HP . Third-party manufacturers are in a lower class - Colortek, Lomond, Zweckform . Branded paper from the first category, as a rule, is always more expensive, but also has an expensive production technology, which affects the final product. Photos printed on paper Epson, Canon, Kodak or HP , will always be distinguished by light fastness and increased reliability to external factors. And this, in turn, allows you to preserve the original appearance of the photograph for many years to come, even without appropriate protection.

It must be said that branded paper very often conflicts with third-party inks, so if you want to get the highest quality color rendition, then use ink from the same manufacturer

Second class of papers ( Colortek, Lomond, Zweckform), or as it is also called, universal - is not so picky about the ink applied. Moreover, manufacturers specifically design this type of paper to interact with third-party dyes. Therefore, with this photo paper, you will always get photographs of acceptable quality, regardless of the brand of ink. And if we also take into account the relatively low cost, then this offer distinguishes it very favorably in comparison with branded photo paper. This, in general, played a key role in the subsequent conquest of the market. So, for example, on Russian market, one of the most popular brands, has become the brand's photo paper Lomond .

conclusions

We have discussed the types of photographic papers, their main parameters, and manufacturers' brands. Let's summarize some results:

Finally, I would like to note that any paper for printing photographs, in itself, is a rather fragile material and requires appropriate storage and operating conditions. As a rule, photo paper is always sold securely packaged. It is best to store it in its original packaging, removing sheets for use as needed.

One of the most important conditions for storing photographic paper is the absence of external influences, such as direct contact sun rays and high humidity. When using photo paper, try not to touch the working surface, either before or after printing. This is necessary for the dye to dry. By adhering to these simple rules, you can always enjoy excellent result produced on any type of photographic paper.

You want it yourself print photos on an inkjet printer for a family album, creative business cards or a photo on a T-shirt?! I assume that you have already acquired a printer, which means that at the moment you are faced with choosing paper. In order for you to be satisfied with the print quality, you need to know what kind of paper will suit you.

Almost all the pictures in the text represent the universal Lomond paper, as one of the main brands that harmoniously combine price-quality ratio.

Criteria for choosing photo paper.

Paper for digital inkjet printing varies according to

manufacturer and cost

The cost of a glossy sheet A4 200 g/m2 was determined as of June 20, 2015 at the stated prices for retail sales on the manufacturer’s website or in the storeCoral Micro (KM) is where I buy paper and, I believe, it is the most inexpensive store, especially for consumables. If you find something cheaper, write me, I will be grateful.

Main brands:

Black Diamond $0.13

Cactus 0,10$

Canon $0.57

Epson 0,58$

HP 0.15$

Lomond $0.12

Revcol $0.11

Canon and Epson paper is designed for their respective inkjet printers and, according to tests, produces excellent quality. I've been typing on universal for a couple of decades now, i.e. Suitable for all printers, Lomond paper.

density

determines the thickness of the sheet. For comparison, regular writing paper has 80-90 grams per square meter (gsm). To print photos, paper from ~180 to 300 g/m2 is required:

• for documents 180-230 g/m2;
• for artistic printing photo, 230-270 g/m2 is enough;
• For photo on T-shirts you can use LOMOND Ink Jet Transfer Paper for Bright Cloth, A4, 140 g/m2;
• business cards We print on embossed paper (huge selection), for example, Lomond, glossy single-sided bright white with “Lizard” embossing, 200 g/m2.
• for flyers preferably double-sided paper with a density of 90-150 g/m2

Standard sizes of sheet photo paper:

There are many more standard formats that could be cited, but I think there is no need. If you come across a size in inches, then you need to remember that 1ʺ = 25.4 mm (classic English inch).

Most inkjet printers support A4 size or smaller.

In addition, if you decide to go to a printing point, you should crop the photo to the following dimensions (in mm):

• 10x15 —102x152
• 15x20—152x203, 152x216, 152x224 - sizes for every taste, do not forget to inform the laboratory assistant what size you have chosen. 20x30—203x305
• 30x40—305x403
• 30x45—305x457

coating or texture

• Matte. Ideal for inserting into a frame under glass, for laminating, for document photos.
• Glossy. Used for photo printing, has a glossy surface. Let it shine! And this is exactly that paper.
• Semi Glossy. It is shiny, but less so; an additional plus is that fingerprints are not so noticeable.
• Super Glossy. It’s already blinding,) especially considering that it is often very white (see other parameters).

Embossed paper can be either glossy or matte.

other parameters

permission, which is responsible for drawing small details. Resolution is essentially the density of dots per inch. Accordingly, the higher the resolution (measured in dots per inch (dpi – dots per inch) and dpi = ppi (pixels per inch)), the better the quality of the photograph. But such a statement is quite controversial. For your information, we view the photo on the screen with a resolution of 72 dpi, and only when printed it looks unattractive, which means that this parameter is important only when printing. It is believed that the human eye is capable of seeing no more than 300-320 dpi, i.e. a photo printed with this resolution and viewed from a distance of 20-30 cm will be no different from a photo from a more high resolution. And what? more picture, and, accordingly, the distance from which it is viewed, the lower the resolution can be.

Lomond's print resolution ranges from 2880 dpi to 5760 dpi.

For the curious. How can we compare this resolution of photographic paper with our resolution when printing 300-320 dpi? If I figured it out correctly, then a simple calculation shows that the sides of the A4 format are 297 mm = 297/25.4 = 11.7 inches, multiplied by a resolution of 300 dpi, we get 3510 pixels, and for the other side A4 210 mm = 210/25.4 = 8.3 inches multiplied at a resolution of 300 dpi we get 2490 pixels. So, to print a photo with a resolution of 300 dpi, we must use high-resolution paper, i.e. 5760 dpi. At 2880 dpi we get a resolution on the larger side equal to 244 dpi, which, in principle, is plenty.

brightness or whiteness. Whiteness, as comparison shows, is slightly lower in Lomond than in its main competitors. But is this criterion so important? Lomond has a line of photo papers with increased brightness (whiteness).

Color transfer, when using Lomond paper, no complaints. But when printing in black and white, a slight blue-green tint appears, especially noticeable in the black parts of the photo. Can be removed in the printer settings: blue, in in this case cyan is neutralized by adding red, and green is neutralized by adding magenta, you can slightly remove the saturation.

water resistance. Like any photo paper, it is relatively moisture-resistant, you can pour water on it and the ink (especially the original ones) will not flow, which is due to inkjet printing technology, but if you rub the wet photo with your finger, you will see a dazzling white backing. Repeated high-quality printing on such paper is impossible.

Do you like to take photographs and want to decorate your interior with your works? Or do you professionally print photos? Then you will definitely need photo paper; without it, you won’t be able to get high-quality images. We won’t say that printing on regular office paper is impractical due to the quality of color rendering, warping of the paper in the form of “waves” and color bleeding, this is already known. Photographic paper is a multilayer paper-cellulose material designed for storing and displaying images. Based on the fact that several printing methods are practiced, the structure of different types of photo paper is also different. Let's look at what types exist and what parameters should be taken into account when choosing.

By type of printing device

For inkjet printing. To create high-quality images on paper, manufacturers recommend using inkjet printers.
The paper has layers that prevent ink from spreading and protect the image from damage (smearing, etc.). The structure of the material allows it to be used with water-based and pigment inks, for thermal and piezojet (these two types differ in the type of print head and the principle of image application) printing, at home and in the studio.
The format and density are chosen taking into account technical characteristics apparatus. For example, paper that is too thick can jam in the printer, and loading a sheet of the wrong size can result in jammed edges.

For printing on a laser device. The production of paper consumables for laser printing is less expensive, since the layers are thinner and there are fewer requirements for them. This method is used mainly by companies for which the speed and volume of printing is more important than the final quality.
Although such paper is rarely labeled “photo”, it is possible to select a material that will print close to photo quality. The density must be at least 100 g/m2, the coating can be any: matte, glossy or derivative options. Paper for laser printers is marked with the marks “laser printing”, LaserJet, etc.
Sometimes users try to print on paper for laser printer inkjet method and vice versa. Manufacturers do not advise doing this, since both the advantages of the material and the advantages of the printing method are lost. The image is of poor quality and short-lived.

By type of coverage

To obtain a high-quality printed photograph that will delight you for many years, it is important to choose the right type of paper. There are original (produced by companies that develop printers) and universal materials.


Uncoated paper. Used for laser printing, the outer layer is similar to glossy. This type has a fairly low price.
Matte photo paper (Matte). This type is considered budget (not counting materials not intended for photo printing), and comes in satin and silk.
The porous structure of the receiving layer looks like an unprotected one, but it is not. The material consists of several layers: the backing protects the sheet from ink seepage and prevents warping, and the top rough layer is resistant to minor damage and does not retain fingerprints. The advantages of matte paper also include its compatibility with pigment, water-based and even sublimation inks and its whiteness, which makes the image bright and detailed.
The disadvantages include loss of saturation when exposed to light for a long time, so it is recommended to laminate photographs or place them under glass. Also, matte paper does not convey color gradations well, especially gray.
This type of photo paper is used for various purposes. If the density is below 120 g/m2, then it is suitable for printing leaflets, presentations, brochures and other printed products. And paper with a density higher than 120 g/m2 is used at home or when creating photographic materials for exhibitions.
Glossy photo paper. This type of paper has a high density. The glossy layer protects the material from fading and paint washing off. Glossy photo paper perfectly conveys the brightness of colors and gradations of all shades, and is also resistant to moisture.

The disadvantages include poor protection from external influences: the surface is easily scratched and fingerprints are visible on it.
Glossy photo paper is used for printing photographs with soft halftones, bright colors, is suitable for printing portraits, and can be used both at home and in photo studios. Mainly water-soluble ink is used, since only super-glossy ink has a special structure that allows it to accept and retain pigment ink.
Can be one of three types:
glossy (Glossy);
semi-gloss (Semi-glossy). Combines the strength of matte paper and the muted shine of gloss;
super glossy. It is classified as premium quality photo paper, as it has a special layer that protects the image and can be used with different types of ink. The prints are more saturated than on a regular glossy one.
Other types of printing paper. In addition to those listed above, there is thermal transfer (when heated, a thin glossy film remains on the object) and heat-sublimation (no film remains) paper. This is an expensive medium, as is adhesive or magnetic paper. They are used for advertising purposes or for souvenirs. When printing, both water-based and pigment inks can be used.

Manufacturers produce both single-sided and double-sided photo paper. Moreover, the latter can have a different coating on each side (glossy on one, matte on the other). It is worth remembering that the most expensive are satin and super-glossy finishes.

Paper Specifications

The main characteristics that you need to look at when buying photo paper include weight, size and type of coating. These factors greatly influence the cost.

Size. There are various formats: from classic (10x15, 21x29.7, 29.7x42 cm) to large-format roll types. The most affordable is the classic 10X15 format, packaged in packs of 500 sheets.
Density. The thicker the paper, the more ink it can accept without damaging the material, and the brighter the image you can get. But you shouldn’t chase a high figure, since not every printer is capable of working with high-density material - you can simply ruin the printing device.
To print a report with images, you should choose media with a density of 100-120 g/m2.
For photographs, photo paper with a rating of 150-300 g/m2 is suitable.
For creating business cards– not less than 250 g/m2.
Thicker types of photo paper are more expensive.
Permission. It is measured in dots per inch and is related to the weight of the paper. Thus, media with a density of up to 130 g/m2 allows printing with a resolution of 2880 dpi. Since small details will be unclear, the price of the consumable is quite low. A resolution of 5760 dpi can be provided by photo paper with a density of 150 g/m2. The higher the resolution, the more colorful and clear the pictures you will get.
Whiteness (brightness). The structure uses bleaches that qualitatively improve color perception. Therefore, on bright paper the print will look richer. The degree of whiteness can be determined visually.

Cost of photo and thermal paper

The price of paper is influenced by various factors, including the packaging option (

Choosing paper for the office is easier than choosing paper for printing art books, but there are some tricks here too. The first thing that catches your eye is the whiteness: it determines how easy the text on the page will be read. But, besides whiteness, there are other parameters that affect quality. For example, hardness, opacity, density, smoothness, evenness of edges and even moisture.

Poor quality paper with a rough surface and big amount Dust on sheets harms equipment: small particles fall on the printing elements and damage them. Sharp, rough edges catch the drum, and now you need to go to the workshop and change the printer parts.

Let's figure out what to look for when buying paper and what samples to focus on.

How to choose paper according to the printer instructions

Equipment manufacturers understand how important paper is to printer operation. Therefore, the instructions say what density is optimal for the device. Density is measured in grams per square meter. In offices, sheets with a characteristic of 80–90 g/m² are usually used. For comparison: 65 g/m² is newspaper, 250 g/m² is cardboard.

If you use paper that is too thick, the printer will not be able to handle it; the sheets may even damage the printing elements. If, on the contrary, it is too thin, the printer will crush it and tear it. And if this happens frequently, the likelihood of equipment breakdown will increase.

If you misplaced the instructions, there is a hint: the name of the manufacturer. Large companies like Xerox produce Consumables for your equipment.

Well, if you want to choose paper without thinking about compatibility with the brand, just pay attention to the quality. It is most convenient to focus on key characteristics. Let's look into them.

What paper to buy for important documents

If you plan to store or use printouts for a long time, or if you print documents for partners, important meetings and presentations, then you need high-quality, premium paper.

This means that the sheets must be:

• Opaque. They are even suitable for double-sided printing, and the table and text from the next sheet will not show through them.
• Dust-free. This means that small particles during printing will not prevent the paint from lying flat on the sheet, that is, all images and letters will be clear.
• White. We don't see shades of white, so it usually doesn't matter whether the paper is 90 or 100 percent white. But text on white paper is easier to read due to contrast.

Paper for important documents can be even thicker and thicker than standard office paper. For example, 120gsm paper is ideal for printing brochures and certificates.

Samples of premium standard weight paper - Xerox Premier and Marathon Premier. If you choose denser materials, then Colotech paper can become the standard of quality. It absorbs ink and paint well, making it great for use in laser and inkjet printers.

What paper to buy for an office where they print a lot

If the printer in the office works almost non-stop, then you need to buy paper that will preserve the equipment, but will not ruin the company.

This is business-class office paper with optimal edge smoothness, rigidity, moisture content and electrical conductivity.

Business paper must have smooth edges so that they do not cling to printer parts, and optimal thickness so that the sheets can be printed smoothly. This is important when you need to print large volumes of documents.

The brightness indicator is also important, because for good work you need documents that are easy to read.

Plus, there is office paper with ready-made perforation (like some Xerox Business options), so that it is convenient to file documents immediately in folders. If hole punchers are in high demand in the office, buy sheets with holes and save your employees time and nerves.

What paper to buy for short-lived documents and for the home

If you print a lot, but then use these documents for a short time (drafts, draft documents), take paper that is cheaper from the economy segment.

This is exactly the case when the absolute whiteness of the sheet is not needed; paper with indicators lower than that of business class is quite suitable.

The main thing when choosing such paper is not to forget that even cheap packs should be free of dust, static electricity and poorly cut sheets. Otherwise, saving on paper is meaningless: you will pay this money for the repair of office equipment.

More good idea- paper made from recycled materials for those who care about environment. It may not be as bright and contrasting as virgin paper, but you will be supporting nature. In addition, recycled is not always dark. For example, Xerox Recycled plus bleaches without chlorine, meets European environmental standards and copes well with all tasks.

What is the best photo paper for an Epson printer? Many people are interested in this issue. Of course, this aspect has long been known to photo printing professionals, but for hobbyists who have a printer or MFP at home and would like to try printing photos for themselves at home, it is quite relevant. If you ask their manufacturers about the criteria for selecting photo paper for a printer, the answer will be clear: for high-quality photo printing best choice There will be “original” photo paper in combination with original ink. But is this really so, because original consumables and photo paper are not always at hand. In addition, many people want to save money and replace these products with cheaper analogues. How will this affect print quality? We will talk about all the nuances of this issue in this article.

What is important for printing photos on an inkjet printer?

To obtain a high-quality image on photographic paper, it is very important, first of all, the quality of the paper and the quality of the ink. Let's look at these items in more detail.

Paper

If plain paper is suitable for printing text documents and simple graphic images, then for printing photographs the requirements are more serious. When you transfer a photo onto regular office paper, you see that the colors blur, the paper becomes wavy, damp, the clarity is blurred, and the colors are distorted. In general, you can’t put such a photo in an album. Plain paper has a small thickness and low density. Ink, especially water-soluble ink, penetrates the fibers of the paper, saturating it to the very bottom.

Important! Even the most expensive coated office paper will not help you get a high-quality photo. On it, graphs and pictures will definitely look more presentable than on a cheap one, but it’s still not suitable for photographs.

Features of photo paper:

• Photo paper consists of several layers (from 3 to 10), each of which performs its own function (holds pigment, protects from external influences, and so on). Due to its multi-layer nature, photo paper is denser and heavier than plain paper.
• It can be matte, glossy, semi-glossy, super-glossy, silky-glossy, even satin.
• On both sides of the central cellulose layer are the rest:
  1. receiving layer - absorbs ink, prevents it from spreading and mixing;
  2. waterproof backing layer;
  3. top layers - as if sealing the ink inside a sheet of photo paper and protecting it from damage, moisture, and ultraviolet radiation.
• Typically, the more expensive and high-quality the paper, the more durable, clearer, and more realistic the photographs are.

Important! Manufacturers such as Epson, Canon, HP produce paper for “native” devices, and it is best photo paper for inkjet printers, as it takes into account all the properties and features of its technology.

Ink

Ink for an inkjet printer can be of the following types:

• Water soluble. They are quite realistic, convey color well, but are very unstable to moisture and ultraviolet radiation. Therefore, photos will be less durable. But this ink is the most inexpensive.
• Pigmented. The dye is solid particles (pigment). Such ink, having penetrated into the central layer of photo paper, remains there for a long time. The pigment is not as susceptible to moisture and ultraviolet radiation as water-soluble ink, so photographs retain their clarity and color for up to 75 years.

Important! Like other items computer equipment, printers tend to break down and fail during continuous operation. If you want to extend the service life of this device, you need to clean it periodically. Read in another article on our site about.

Important! Ultrachrome inks are also produced on a pigment basis (only for professional and wide-format Epson printers, they have a wide palette and convey the original image as accurately as possible). Sublimation ink (for special paper, thermal film) also consists of pigments.

There are Chinese, South Korean, and other companies that produce water-soluble and pigment inks for inkjet printers. They are much cheaper than original consumables and are quite suitable for printing documents, pictures, and graphs. But for high-quality photo printing, ink from the same company as your printer is best suited.

How to choose photo paper for inkjet printers?

To make the right choice, you need to know what criteria to pay attention to when purchasing.

External coating and internal structure

Photographic paper can be of several types based on its outer coating and internal structure. The choice of one or the other depends, by and large, on personal preferences.

Matte

Represents the most budget option:

• It has three layers:
  1. waterproof backing that prevents ink from bleeding through;
  2. a middle layer of cellulose that holds the ink;
  3. the top rough layer that serves as a protective barrier.
• On matte photo paper, fine details of the image are quite clearly visible, it does not reflect light, and thanks to optical brighteners (usually titanium dioxide), the colors look brighter. In addition, minor scratches and fingerprints are not very noticeable.
• This photo paper can be printed with water-soluble and pigment inks.

Important! The disadvantage of the product is that such photos are not very durable, they lose brightness over time, so for additional protection from external influences they need to be laminated or placed under glass or film.

Glossy:

• This photo paper has an additional protective smooth layer.
• The advantage is that the photo does not fade so quickly, is not so susceptible to moisture, and reflects light well.
• The image looks juicy and bright, but all scratches and fingerprints are immediately visible.

Important! There is an intermediate option - semi-gloss photo paper (Semi Glossy). It produces bright, long-lasting images, but does not easily show minor damage or marks.

There is also super glossy photo paper (Super Glossy). It displays colors the most richly and brightly, but, however, it shines too much in the sun, in addition, it shows the least damage.

Important! Probably everyone has encountered a situation where, while refilling a printer cartridge, ink accidentally got on their hands. In order to remove it without damaging the skin, read our other article.

Microporous

This look is similar to matte:

• A special feature of microporous paper is that it has a special absorbent porous layer that instantly absorbs ink, and the photograph dries very quickly.
• The downside is that micropores allow air access to the dye, so in order for the photo not to lose its brightness, it will have to be covered with a protective glossy layer.

Photo paper in the form of a polymer that swells

Inside the paper there is an absorber in the form of a gel or polymer. When ink arrives, this layer receives it and swells. As the liquid evaporates, the thickness of this layer decreases, air access stops, and the ink is sealed inside the paper. Thanks to this technology, the photo does not fade for a long time, although it is afraid of moisture.

Important! Only pigment inks are suitable for this type of photo paper.

Designer photo paper:

• It differs from other species in that it has maximum amount functional layers, inside there may be a layer of 100% cotton instead of cellulose.
• The paper is protected from moisture and gluing.
• The peculiarity of designer paper is that its surface can imitate canvas, an ancient scroll or the texture of leather.
• Designer photo paper is the most expensive and is rarely found on store shelves.

Important! There are also other types of photo paper: for double-sided printing (one side can be matte and the other glossy), with an adhesive or magnetic backing, or for thermal printing.

When choosing a particular type of photo paper, do not forget to check the technical capabilities of your printer.

Important! Do you have too many photos that you would like to enjoy every day without having to print them? Modern photo frames will come to your aid. And practical advice on how to avoid making a mistake in your choice will help you.

Photo paper weight

It is measured in g/m2. This parameter usually depends on the number of layers in the sheet. The more there are, the greater the density:

• In ordinary office paper, the density does not exceed 150 g/m2. In photo paper this figure should be much higher.
• For good quality photography density should be at least 230-300 g/m2.

Important! The lower the paper density, the more the ink mixes and spreads, and accordingly, the clarity of the image is lost.

Size

If ordinary paper for printing text documents is in A4 format, then for photographs everyone is accustomed to using A6 (10x15 cm). Although the sizes may be different, the same A4 (210x297 mm), A3 (48x32 cm), A10 (26x37 mm) and others, less commonly used. There is even photo paper in rolls.

Important! Before you buy a ream of paper, read your printer's manual to see what format might be right for you.

Print Resolution

Measured in dots per inch (dpi or dpi). This parameter depends largely on the paper density:

• For densities up to 150 g/m2, the printing resolution can be a maximum of 2880 dpi, that is, this, of course, is not suitable for reproducing colorful photos with small details.
• For thicker photo paper, printing resolution will be 5760 dpi and higher.

Important! The larger this parameter, the better quality photo you will get as a result.

So, we’ve sorted out all the various characteristics of photo paper, now let’s move on to specific examples.

Epson

What is the best photo paper for an Epson printer?

For an Epson printer, according to the manufacturers of this equipment, “native” photo paper is ideally suitable:

• In the series of matte paper, you can find Matte photo paper Epson in A4 format (167 g/m2, 250 sheets), it provides high quality resolution.
• There is also matte paper in rolls of 50 meters: Bond paper white (36” and 24”).
• The line of glossy photo paper is more widely represented - Premium Glossy photo paper (13×18, 500 sheets or 30.5 meter roll), Glossy photo paper (10×15, A4, 13×18 from 50 to 500 sheets), Hi-image glossy and other.
• Premium Semi glossy photo paper 10×15, 100 sheets or more is also available).

Important! If you use original ink on this paper, you will be pleased with the quality of the photo.

In addition to the original branded paper, for amateur photo printing you can also use paper from Inksystem - Glossy photo paper 10x15. It transfers images well, has a low price and, judging by customer reviews, is perfectly used in Epson printers and MFPs.

• Photo paper from Lomond. It is presented in different series - from the usual matte and glossy to satin and designer (Art series).
• You can find inexpensive analogues of the brands Barva, Colorway, BBM and others. For amateur photo printing without any special pretensions, such products are quite suitable.

Canon

What is the best photo paper for Canon? As in the previous case, original paper in combination with “native” ink would be ideal:

• Photo paper matte in different sizes.
• Photo paper plus glossy - glossy.
• Plus semi-gloss - semi-glossy.

Important! There are a variety of sizes, and the number of sheets in a pack may also vary.

Like Epson, these printers are also suitable for universal paper Lomond, Inksystem, Barva, Colorway, BBM and others.

Important! They are not quite suitable for professional photo printing, but just right for amateur ones.

And don't forget to pay attention to the thickness of the paper. As mentioned above, the thicker the paper, the better image quality you will get.

Important! All data can be found on the front of the photo paper package.

HP

HP also produces a line of photo paper for its printers in different formats and with different coatings:

• Everyday glossy photo paper and Advanced glossy photo paper - glossy.
• Semi-matte – Premium plus semi-gloss photo paper.

So, with all sorts of nuances in various types We have introduced you to the paper for printing photographs, so the choice is yours. The most important thing is that before purchasing, study the printing capabilities and requirements of your printer model, carefully read the parameters of the photo paper you are purchasing so that everything fits together. For professional printing of high-quality photographs, purchase only original consumables, and for amateur printing, you can choose from the variety of products presented what suits your wallet and taste.