Choosing Photo Paper for Your Printing Needs
You've grown tired of driving to the neighborhood kiosk to print your pictures. Birthday parties and special moments can be captured and developed within a matter of minutes. A photo printer, ink and a ream of semi-gloss, glossy, or matte paper can get you started.
What kind of printers are used for photos?
There are printers designed strictly for photo printing. Other printers have multi-function capabilities, which include photo output. Those that are dedicated to picture output typically use a large combination of ink colors. Most are capable of producing photos larger than the standard 8.5x11 inch sheets. Beginner photo printers may offer fewer features than the more sophisticated models. HP, Canon, and Epson are familiar options that work with a variety of camera and paper types. Photo printers are available with several features and in various colors to match your office decor. The most common colors are black, white, gray, and beige. Professional photography studios develop their own photos or outsource the task. Here are a few common printer paper options for photo printers:
- Canon photo paper
- HP Advanced
- HP Everyday
- FineArt satin-like paper
- Canon SG-201
How to choose the right photo paper?
The type of paper used has a significant impact on the outcome of the photos. Inkjet photo paper and print technology work together to produce quality photos. Photo paper has different qualities than ordinary inkjet paper. Digital pictures should have clean lines and crisp colors. Choose photo paper based on the type of photos being printed. White paper with a glossy finish emits a high shine that is visible on photos of color. A sticky-backed paper is ideal to make pictures for magnets. Be attentive to the paper density and wrinkle-resistant qualities. You want to be sure your printer is equipped to print photos. Here are a few types of available photo paper:
- Seamless paper: this is available in a variety of colors. It is often used to create photo backdrops.
- Multi-grade: a premium quality paper on a resin base. It is ideal for darkroom print development.
- Semi-gloss: this paper has a slight to medium level gloss. It is ideal or more natural images.
What kind of photo paper do print professionals use?
Professional print stations and kiosks use various types of paper. Many people choose to utilize these services as a time-saving mechanism. Specialty art designs have a clearer appearance when printed on professional-quality paper. Home inkjets may take longer to print out multiple copies and professional shops are used. Some services use paper that is made of muslin. Here are a few other types of paper used:
- Luster-free
- High-gloss
- Matte finish
- Premium photography