The Journal

Different types of images and their intended display environments demand specific paper characteristics, here’s how I decide which paper to use.

As the photographer, I want to ensure that every print you purchase from my website is a true work of art, showcasing the best qualities of each image. The choice of photographic paper plays a crucial role in achieving this, and it’s not a straightforward decision. There are many factors involved in selecting the perfect paper for each image. Let me share the options available and explain how I make the right choice for your prints.

Paper Weights

Paper weight refers to the thickness and sturdiness of the paper, measured in grams per square meter (gsm). Here are the weights I consider and how I decide which to use:

Lightweight Papers (90-150 gsm): These are really only suitable for casual printing and everyday use, test prints in the studio for example. Although they are easy to handle they are not really suitable for Fine Art printing.

Medium Weight Papers (150-200 gsm): These are good for high-quality photo prints intended for framing or display, as once framed or mounted they are protected from handling and strike a balance between sturdiness and flexibility.

 Heavyweight Papers (200-300 gsm and above): For professional-grade prints, especially those intended for gallery displays or Fine Art prints for collectors or investors, I use heavyweight papers designed for Fine Art printing 99% of the time because I supply your images unmounted. Their rigidity ensures that the print remains flat and uncreased, providing a premium feel.

Paper Finishes - the other consideration

The finish of the paper affects the texture, sheen, and overall look of the printed image, once again there is a wide choice, one particular company has a range of over twenty different weights, surfaces and 

 Glossy: This finish enhances colour vibrancy and contrast, perfect for images with rich colours and fine details. However, glossy paper is prone to fingerprints and glare, so I choose it carefully, mainly for images where the visual impact outweighs these considerations.

Matte: Matte paper provides a non-reflective surface with softer, more muted colours. I use it for black and white photos, vintage-style prints, and images where a subtle, classic look is desired. Its resistance to glare and fingerprints makes it ideal for various lighting conditions and high-traffic areas.

 Lustre or Satin: Combining the best of glossy and matte, lustre paper offers vibrant colours and sharp details with reduced glare. It’s versatile and suits a wide range of images, from portraits to landscapes. I often choose this finish for its balanced appearance and practical benefits.

 Metallic: Metallic paper adds a unique, pearlescent finish, providing depth and a three-dimensional effect to images. It’s perfect for bold, high-contrast images like sunsets and cityscapes. In my experience though metallic papers work best when lit by a dedicated spotlight, with the correct lighting they can look amazing.

 Fine Art Textured: These papers have a textured surface, similar to watercolour paper, more pronounced than canvas, adding a tactile dimension to the image. These papers are good for Fine Art prints, where the texture enhances the artistic appeal and authenticity of the print.

Conclusion

 As you can appreciate selecting the right photographic printing paper is a not a straightforward process. By understanding the different weights, finishes, and suitability for specific images and their display environments, I can ensure that each print not only looks stunning but also stands the test of time. My goal is to create prints that captivate and leave a lasting impression, tailored to the unique qualities of each image.