photography paper presentation

The best photo paper for inkjet printers in 2024

Bring your images to life with the best photo paper for your inkjet printer, from Canon, Epson, Hahnemühle and more

• Hahnemühle

The best photo paper is worth the extra investment, whether you're exhibiting your images, displaying them in a portfolio, or just printing them for your own uses. When teamed with best photo printer , you'll be giving your photographs the quality look that you deserve, and at only a minor cost compared with using cheap paper.  

Below, we've brought together the best photo paper from our favorite manufacturers, Canon , Epson , Hahnemühle, Ilford and Canson. You'll find both glossy or matte papers, and we've also got a section on the best budget photo paper, in case you're very tight on budget. 

Not sure what you're looking for? Then jump ahead to our Photo paper FAQs . Then, once you've chosen and bought the best photo paper for your needs, read our guide to the best printer ink to complete the package.

Best photo paper for inkjet printers

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Canon photo papers

1. Canon Photo Paper Pro Platinum PT-101

Specifications, reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

For those printing with a typical 5-ink PIXMA multi-function document/photo printer, Canon’s Photo Paper Plus Glossy II PP-201 is the most sensible choice for performance and value for money. It’s a reasonably weighty 265gsm glossy photo paper with an attractive high-gloss finish. 

For the best results, however, especially if you’re using a more exotic printer, Pro Platinum is the better option. It’s a fair bit pricier but is superior in quality and weight, at 300gsm. As Canon’s range-topping glossy paper, it has excellent brightness, enables sumptuous color rendition and is very resistant to fading.

2. Canon Photo Paper Pro Luster LU-101

The debate over whether glossy or luster finish is best has been going on since the days when we used to have our rolls of 35mm film processed on the high street. Luster isn’t as full-on shiny as glossy paper but it has advantages in reducing glare from strong light sources bouncing off the surface, and is preferable for handling if you’re passing prints around, as it’s more resistant to fingerprints. 

Canon’s Photo Paper Pro Luster is an upmarket paper with an attractive look and feel, that delivers excellent results. Like other Canon ‘Pro’ papers, it’s priced accordingly and, if you’re happy to settle for a little less, check out Canon’s Photo Paper Plus Semi-gloss SG-201, which has a pleasant satin finish.

3. Canon Photo Paper Pro Premium Matte PM-101

Available in a wide range of sizes up to A2/17x22-inch, this is Canon’s best matte photo paper. Unlike glossy, semi-gloss and lustre, there’s no reflection from the surface. Deep colors and rich blacks can look really dramatic. It works just fine with Canon’s dye-based printers up to and including the PIXMA PRO-200, and is even better with pigment-based printers like the imagePROGRAF PRO-300 and PRO-1000, which feature matte black inks. 

For use on more mainstream PIXMA multi-function document/photo printers, MP-101 Matte Photo Paper works well and is much cheaper to buy. It’s also lighter in weight, making it easier to use for creative projects and creating greetings cards. With this in mind, there’s also a double-sided MP-101D version.

Epson photo papers

4. Epson Premium Photo Paper Glossy

Like Canon, Epson offers a wide range of glossy papers to suit different needs and budgets. Going up through the price range, there’s Epson Value Glossy, Epson Photo Paper Glossy, Epson Premium Photo Paper Glossy and Epson Ultra Photo Paper Glossy. For performance and price, the Premium Glossy paper gives the best mix of standout performance, with Epson’s six-ink dye-based photo inkjet printers, without spending over the odds. 

Color rendition is excellent and the high-gloss surface is superb. It’s only really worth trading up to the range-topping Ultra Glossy paper if you want the heavier 300gsm paper weight, compared with the Premium paper’s 265gsm. Another advantage of the Premium paper is that it’s available in a number of roll options, ideal for use with Epson’s larger-format printers that have built-in or optional roll feeders.

5. Epson Premium Photo Paper Semi-Gloss

Fully glossy paper can hang awkwardly on the wall, diminishing the image if strong light sources are bouncing back off its surface. Lustre papers are often preferred but not everyone likes a textured finish. 

This semi-gloss premium photo paper strikes a good balance with a glare-resistant but ‘cockle-free’ finish that makes it highly suitable for exhibition-grade printing. It enables excellent resolution for retention of ultra-fine detail, along with rich color saturation and deep blacks. 

The paper performs equally well with Epson’s dye-based printers and its more pro-grade pigment-based photo printers like the SureColor P700 and P900, although slight bronzing can be apparent with pigment inks. A variety of cut-sheet sizes is available, as well as various roll options.

6. Epson Ultra Premium Presentation Paper Matte

Epson makes two similar matte photo papers, sold as Archival Matte Paper in Europe and Ultra Premium Presentation Paper Matte in the USA. They both have an excellent matte finish that avoids distractions from bright lights bouncing off the surface of the paper. 

They have excellent whiteness and are great for printing both color and black & white photo prints, thanks to their impressive tonal range. One potential problem with the Archival Matte Paper is that it’s only available in a relatively limited range of sizes, and there’s no A2/17x22-inch option to suit printers like the SureColor P900.

Hahnemühle papers

7. Hahnemühle Photo Rag Baryta

Hahnemühle has a history of top-quality papermaking that goes back to 1584, based at the same site in Germany throughout, to make use of its top-quality and entirely consistent natural water supply. Photo Rag Baryta is one of the company’s best-selling photo papers, from its Digital FineArt Glossy line-up. 

There’s a truly vast range of Hahnemühle FineArt media to choose from and the Glossy section itself is very extensive, including metallic, pearl and satin options. The Photo Rag Baryta is based purely on cotton fibres and has a lovely natural whiteness. The smooth, glossy inkjet coating enables very vibrant color rendition along with superb sharpness and really deep blacks, ideal for really punchy results.

8. Hahnemühle German Etching

Hahnemühle’s Digital FineArt media is split into various categories that include matte smooth, matte textured, glossy and canvas. German Etching is a great all-rounder from the matte textured range. It’s genuine mould-made paper, based on a traditional and now very rare process, giving it a lovely tactile feel, along with a unique surface texture with a felt structure that generates a truly three-dimensional effect for photo prints. 

Its 310gsm density also gives it a really substantial, top-quality look and feel. Vivid color and really deep blacks are assured by the premium matte inkjet coating.

9. Hahnemühle Bamboo

A new addition to Hahnemühle’s Digital FineArt collection is the ‘Natural Line’ of papers. The three options so far consist of Bamboo, Hemp and Agave. As such, each of these papers is created from plant-based cellulose, chosen for being rapid-growing, requiring relatively little water and no pesticides. The raw material is thus highly sustainable and very eco-friendly. 

The Bamboo paper is a prime example, being made from 90% bamboo fibres and 10% cotton. It has a pleasantly warm and natural white that works particularly well for printing images with warm hues, as well as for creating black & white prints. It’s a matte paper with a delightfully subtle, felt textured surface.

Canson papers

10. Canson Infinity ARCHES 88

Canson has long been renowned as a maker of top-quality fine art papers. More recently, it’s gained added prestige with the acquisition of ARCHES, a master papermaker since 1492 and the only paper mill in France using a traditional cylinder mould process for all of its papers. 

Current choices in the Canson Infinity ARCHES line-up include 88, BFK Rives Pure White, BFK Rives White and Aquarelle Rag. The 88 is made entirely from cotton fibres and has an ultra-smooth matte finish. 

As with all of the other fine art papers in our guide, it’s completely free of any optical brighteners and has excellent archival qualities. Photo print quality is similarly top-drawer, with natural whites, rich blacks and superb tonal range.

11. Canson Infinity Rag Photographique 310gsm

Many photographers favor matte paper for printing and Rag Photographique from the Canson Infinity line-up is one of the best. It’s available in two different densities, in both cut sheet and roll options, and there’s also a double-sided ‘Duo’ version. 

It’s created from cotton fibers but includes additional natural minerals to enable an exceptionally smooth white tone. It’s also particularly long-lasting, having been developed to satisfy museum requirements as well as catering to the digital fine art market in general. The paper is wonderfully smooth to the touch and delivers superb photo print quality with particularly deep blacks.

12. Canson Infinity Platine Fibre Rag 310gsm

The base material for this lustre photo paper is made purely from cotton fibers, but it also has a microporous top layer coating to give it a lustre finish. As such, it’s based on a paper that was a favourite for many years in the original Platinum/Platine traditional photographic market for conventional darkroom printing. 

The ‘digital darkroom’ Platine Fibre Rag has the same look and feel as its conventional forebear, the F-Type Baryta Fibre paper. Excellent for both color and black and white photo printing, it has a superb tonal range from really deep blacks to bright whites.

Ilford photo papers

13. Ilford Galerie Prestige Smooth Pearl Photo Paper

The finish to Ilford Galerie Prestige Photo Paper is a cut above other papers around the same price point. For a very reasonable cost, you get a professional pearl finish  and an instant-dry nanoporous surface. This provides more of the heavyweight look and feel of a traditional photograph than most of the basic photo papers on the market. You'll also benefit from excellent compatibility with a range of pigment and dye-based inkjet printers.

14. Ilford Galerie Prestige Smooth Cotton Rag

Ilford's Smooth Cotton Rag paper is designed with fine-art printers in mind - and is available in an impressive number of sheet and roll sizes. You can even get rolls that are 50in wide in this finish. A key attraction is that it uses no optical brighteners, so boasts its credentials for longevity and image stability. The smooth finish is best used for images where you need to show crisp detail.

Budget photo papers

15. Amazon Basics Glossy Photo Paper

This glossy paper is pretty basic, but offers good value for the price. While it's not the highest quality, at just 160gsm, it's fine for when you're printing out photos for personal reference, and don't need to show them to anyone else. It comes with a smudge-resistant finish, so your inkjet-printed photos can be handled easily and won’t stick to other surfaces during display or storage.

16. Epson Matte Presentation Paper

Need a cheap matte paper? While this is not a good choice for final photographic prints, Presentation Paper Matte is consistent, reliable and okay for personal prints for your eyes only. This single-sided inkjet paper has a smooth finish and works with virtually all inkjet printers. In total, this paper offers fantastic value.  

17. HP Everyday Photo Paper

Here's another glossy budget paper for when you're not bothered about quality and just want to save money. This glossy paper prints reliably, dries quickly for easy handling and can be used with pretty much any inkjet printer. Plus it's easy-to-recycle and FSC-certified.

18. Koala Glossy Thin InkJet Photo Paper

Koala isn't the best-known name in photo printing paper, but they deliver a good value product at an affordable price that's certainly good enough for home use. Thin yet strong, this paper is suitable for photos, scrapbooks, presentations, certificates and other family printing needs.

Photo paper FAQs

Not sure what you're looking for when it comes to finding the best photo paper? To give you a better steer, here are some answers to common questions about buying the right photo papers and inks for your photography projects.

What is photo paper?

Photo paper is, quite simply, paper that's specially designed for printing photos on. If you've ever tried to printing your photographs on normal office paper, you'll have seen that the results are quite disappointing. So whether you're using a regular office multi-function printer or a dedicated photo printer like the Epson XP-970 , you will get much better results from selecting good quality photo paper.

What is the difference between glossy and matte photo paper?

As the name suggests, glossy photo paper has a shiny finish, while matte paper has a flat, non-reflective finish. As a general rule of thumb, glossy photo paper is better for making prints with vibrant colors and deep blacks, while matte photo paper is better for making prints with natural colors and reduced glare.

What is the difference between RC and FB photo paper?

RC (resin-coated) photo paper is made with a thin layer of plastic on both sides, which makes it water-resistant and durable. FB (fiber-based) photo paper, in contrast, is made from pure cellulose fibers, which gives it a more traditional look and feel. FB photo paper is also more archival, meaning that it will last longer without fading.

How can I make my photo prints last longer?

Your photo prints will last longer if you store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Also avoid touching the front of the prints with your fingers, as this can cause fingerprints and smudges. You can further protect your prints by placing them in photo sleeves or frames, or a quality photo album .

Should you print your own photos or send them to a lab?

There’s also a lot to be said for creating your own prints with a high-quality photo printer instead of uploading your digital images to a lab. For one thing, you maintain control over the whole process and, with a just little learning and maybe a bit of trial and error, you should be able to get fabulous results that are exactly as you want them. 

Professional photographers often feel that printing their own images enables them to show their photos in the way they want them to be seen, rather than being at the mercy of random and possibly badly adjusted monitor screens, tablets and even smartphones, owned by their clients.

What are the different types of photo paper?

Photo papers fall into two main categories. The first includes glossy, semi-gloss and lustre papers , which have a protective, shiny top layer. These are most ideal for use with photo printers like the Canon PIXMA PRO-200 and even general home printers, which use dye-based inks to generate photo output. The water-based ink is fully absorbed beneath the top layer, enabling excellent uniformity with an entirely smooth finish.

With matte photo papers , the ink is laid on the top-layer inkjet coating, rather than being absorbed beneath it. These are better suited to printers such as the Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-300 and Epson SureColor P700 and SureColor P900 , which use pigment-based inks. 

Unlike dye-based inks, the pigments in these inks is suspended in the liquid rather than being dissolved. The larger molecules of the pigments are more robust and better suited to matte paper. 

They’re also suitable for printing on glossy, semi-gloss and lustre photo papers but less ideal than dye-based inks. That’s because the pigments generally won’t be fully absorbed beneath the outer layer, which can give rise to ‘bronzing’, where the print looks blank and lifeless when viewed from certain angles. Gloss differential can also be a problem, where areas of the print with a denser covering of ink look less glossy than areas with a relatively light covering.

Glossy papers work well with photographs with deep, rich colors, while matte paper is usually more suitable for black and white photos. However, note that glossy papers attract fingerprints more easily, and suffer more from glare in direct sunlight or bright lighting.

Are big-brand inks and papers the best for printing photos?

Using own-brand inks and photo papers from the likes of Canon and Epson, you can be assured of photo prints that should last a lifetime without fading. The chemistry of the inks and papers are naturally formulated to work together. 

ICC (International Color Consortium) profiles ensure that the right mix of inks is used to maximize color fidelity for any given own-brand paper with a particular ink set. It’s an important issue because different papers have varying whiteness and react with ink in different ways. Indeed, ultra-white papers sometimes include optical brighteners, similar to those used in laundry detergents, which react with UV light to give a super-bright appearance. The downside is that stability is less good over time, so they’re typically not used in archival and ‘fine art’ media.

Because the results are pretty much guaranteed when using own-brand inks and papers, many photographers don’t venture any further. But that’s missing a trick. 

So-called ‘fine art’ media is available from printer manufacturers like Canon and Epson but also from specialist paper makers like Canson and Hahnemühle, who take papermaking to a more elevated level. Whereas standard photo papers tend to have a plasticky feel and can be somewhat lacking in character, fine art papers are often based on cotton ‘rag’ and other premium fibers, and are created to the highest standards with specialist manufacturing processes.

Some Canson and Hahnemühle’s fine art media is made on traditional mould paper machines, which are now very rare, in a process that goes back centuries and has been favored by the greatest painters down the ages. Fine art media is generally heavier than mass-produced photo paper and comes in a huge range of smooth or uniquely textured finishes that give them a much higher-quality look and feel. 

As with printer manufacturers’ own-brand papers, Canson and Hahnemühle offer ICC profiles for a huge range of inkjet printers, to ensure the utmost accuracy and fidelity.

What are the standard paper sizes?

There are a number of common paper sizes used for printing photos. Essentially there are two systems used - one that measures the dimensions in inches (particularly popular in North American), and an ISO system that uses a letter and a character (such as A4) that aims standardize international paper sizes.

Read more •  Best mat cutter • Best cutting mat • Best large format printers •  Best portable printers •  Best photo printers •  Best compact printers •  Best all-in-one printers •  Best photo printing online •  Best photo books •  Best 3D printers

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Matthew Richards is a photographer and journalist who has spent years using and reviewing all manner of photo gear. He is Digital Camera World's principal lens reviewer – and has tested more primes and zooms than most people have had hot dinners! 

His expertise with equipment doesn’t end there, though. He is also an encyclopedia  when it comes to all manner of cameras, camera holsters and bags, flashguns, tripods and heads, printers, papers and inks, and just about anything imaging-related. 

In an earlier life he was a broadcast engineer at the BBC, as well as a former editor of PC Guide.

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Ultimate Guide to Photo Paper: 4 Main Types | How to Choose | 8 Best Recommendations

Even thought digital photography taking over the world，photo paper prints still ramain a perfect way to showcase sweet moments. While you might have a clue as to what kind of photo paper is best, it can take time to find the right type and manufacturer.

That's why this post teaches you everything you need to know about photo paper types, how to choose the right one for your needs, and which brands produce the best in class.

5 Types of Photo Paper

1. glossy papers.

Photo by foxie on shutterstock

It's what most of us think of when we hear the words "photo paper." It's glossy, smooth, and has a lot of contrast. The glossy paper is ideal for photo prints that need to be viewed from a distance.

Glossy papers should not be used where there's a lot of light, especially direct sunlight, as they tend to reflect light. At the same time, they are great at minimizing color casts which means if you want a neutral picture, this is the kind to use.

2. Metallic Papers

Photo by FUN FUN PHOTO on shutterstock

Unlike glossy photo paper, metallic photo paper has a metallic sheen. They are durable, have a high D'Max value, and work best with images that need to fade into the background. If you want to show off the texture of your photography, this is the type of paper to use.

3. Luster Papers

Image Credit: amazon.com   

Luster papers have a glossy surface but are heavier and thicker than typical glossy papers. They are also more durable and have an archival life of 100 years, making them perfect for photo prints that will last generations.

They are also ideal for glossing up low-resolution photos and should be used in relatively dry areas. Luster paper is the best kind to use if you want your photographs to look like art prints.

4. Matte Papers

Photo by Valentina Perfilyeva on shutterstock

Matte photo paper is a great option for prints that need to last. It does not react to light as much as glossy photo papers, making them ideal for framing without glare.

The only drawback is that they have a lesser Dmax value and are not as bright or contrasty.

Matte photo papers have a longer lifespan than other glossy papers and can be placed in most areas, even humid ones.

5. Satin Papers

Image Credit:  amazon.com   

Satin photo paper is a cross between glossy and matte papers. It has the smoothness of glossy paper but with a toned down luster. They are also great for framing because they are not as reflective as glossies.

Luster vs. Glossy

One key difference between luster papers and glossy papers is the finish. Luster papers have a subtle, semi-gloss finish, while glossy papers have a shiny, high-gloss finish. The glossy paper also has a smooth surface compared to the slightly frosted texture of luster paper.

In terms of advantages, luster papers tend to be more fingerprint resistant and better for photographing subjects with imperfections or textures. Glossy papers, on the other hand, provide a richer look and feel and can make colors appear more vibrant, although they are very prone to fingerprint smear and dirt.

Glossy vs. Matte

The main difference between glossy and matte photo papers is the finish. Glossy papers have a shiny, reflective finish, while matte papers have a flat, non-reflective finish.

Photo by P.S_2 on shutterstock

In terms of advantages, glossy papers can make colors appear more vibrant and add depth to images. On the other hand, matte papers tend to be better for reading text and reducing glare from light sources.

Overall, the choice between glossy and matte papers often comes down to personal preference and the intended use of the printed material.

How to Choose Photo Printer Paper?

Before you choose a photo paper for your next print, there are a few important points that you should know.

1. Surface of Paper

When choosing photo printer paper, consider the surface of the paper. Glossy surfaces make colors appear more vibrant and bold, while matte surfaces give a softer look. Some papers also have a semi-gloss or satin finish for a balance between the two options.

2. Weight of Paper

Photo by Daniel Krason on shutterstock

The weight of the paper can also affect the look and feel of your printed photos. Thinner paper may be more affordable, but it could also produce a flimsy final product. Heavier weight papers tend to give a more professional and high-quality appearance.

3. Compatibility with Printer

It's important to ensure that the paper you choose is compatible with your printer. Consult your printer's manual or do some research to find out the recommended paper types and sizes for your specific device. Using incompatible paper can result in poor printing quality or even damage to your printer.

4. Special Features

Some photo printer papers have special features such as water resistance or adhesive backing for easy display options. Consider what you plan to do with your printed photos and choose a paper that suits those needs.

Ultimately, the decision may also come down to budget. Compare prices and consider if the extra cost of a certain paper is worth it for the desired result. You may even want to do some test prints on different papers to see which one you prefer before committing to a larger purchase.

6. Brightness and Opacity

Photo by DigitalHand Studio on shutterstock

A higher brightness value will result in brighter colors and sharper contrast. Opacity refers to how well a paper prevents the ink from showing through on the other side – choose a paper with high opacity for double-sided printing without bleed-through.

7. Dmax Value

Another important factor to consider is the Dmax value, which measures the maximum density of black ink a paper can hold. A higher Dmax value often results in richer and more detailed dark tones in your photos. Keep in mind that this feature may come at a higher price point.

8. Durability

Lastly, think about how long you want your printed photos to last. Some papers are specially coated for extra durability and waterproofing, while others may be more prone to fading or smudging over time. Decide on the level of longevity that you desire before making a decision.

Best Photo Paper for Printer

1.  canon photo paper pro platinum pt-101.

Image Credit: amazon.com

Specification

• Surface Finish: Glossy
• Surface Coating: Resin
• Print Side: Single
• Print life: 200+ years
• Sheet size: 4 x 6 inches
• Thickness: 0.3 mm
• Weight: 250 g
• Produces crystal clear, quality prints.
• Available in a variety of sizes.
• Color prints come out great.
• It is a bit expensive
• It is thick and may end up jamming some printers.

2.  HP Everyday Photo Paper

• Thickness: 0.2 mm
• Weight: 200 grams
• It is affordable
• The papers are recyclable
• Prints dry quickly and are ready for use
• Results are colorful
• It is universally compatible. (Can be used by any printer)
• Very thin and might tear easily.

3.  Epson Ultra Premium Presentation Paper Matte

Image Credit:  amazon.com

• Surface Finish: Matte
• Sheet size: 5 x 7 inches
• Weight: 192 grams
• Sharp quality output is water resistant
• Dries quickly after printing
• Hard to notice the treated side

4.  Canson Infinity Rag Photographique Matte 310 gsm

• Sheet size: 8.5 x 11 grams
• Thickness: 0.47 mm
• Weight: 310 grams
• It is resistant to water
• Dries instantly after printing
• It is age resistant
• Great for printing images in black and white
• It is expensive

5.  Hahnemühle German Etching Paper

• Brightness: 92%
• Surface Coating: Cellulose
• Opacity: 99%
• Sheet size: 8.5 x 11"
• Produces images with great depth and saturation
• It can be used with watercolors
• It is acid-free
• It is water resistant
• Doesn't always produce the best quality prints.

6.  Hahnemühle Photo Rag Baryta

• Whiteness: 91%
• Surface material: Cotton Rag
• Opacity: 97%
• Sheet size: 5.8x8.3 inches
• Thickness: 0.39 mm
• Weight: 315 grams
• It is compatible with dye based ink
• Top quality
• Lets you attain a 3d depth

7.  Canson Infinity Platine Fibre Rag

• Surface Finish: Luster
• Surface Material: Cotton Rag
• Whiteness: 89%
• Sheet size: 17 x 22
• Thickness: 0.4 mm
• It is great for black and white photography
• It is resistant to aging.
• Colored images may not turn out great.

8.  Amazon Basics Photo Paper

• Sheet size: 8.5 x 11
• Weight: 250 grams
• They are very affordable
• The material is long-lasting
• The paper's surface is smudge resistant.
• It can only be used on inkjet printers.

It is important to know the advantages and disadvantages of each type of paper before adopting a certain paper for your printing needs, especially if you are a professional photographer. In the long run, you will save more money with good quality paper that can last long, even if it is a bit expensive. Thank you for reading.

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Max Foster Fine Art Photography Blog

Understanding photographic paper finishes.

Before you begin printing, you’ll need to choose the type of paper you want to use as the print medium. The three main types are matte, glossy and luster. Which you choose will have a dramatic impact on how your image appears when printed. It’s worth mentioning at the outset that there is no best photographic paper finish. Instead, it depends on the effect you want to create and the final display presentation. There are also paper subtypes such as metallic that can add a unique look to prints. In this article we look at each photographic paper option, what they offer and how to select the right option for you.

Winter's Embrace , Max Foster's limited edition photography print of a hoar frost covered tree from his Winter gallery collection. Fine Art Limited Edition of 50. Photo © copyright by Max Foster

Luster, Glossy, Matte, Metallic & More!

Photographic paper finishes refer to how the paper appears, both with and without print. In this article, we will discuss matte, glossy and luster prints (the most common options) as well as specialty ones: pearl and metallic. Not all photo print shops use these exact terms, so to clear up confusion, we will also include other names you might encounter in each section.

In general, you can determine the difference between different photographic paper finishes across the following dimensions:

• Color vibrancy
• Details - Relate to how the print captures the original image and sharpness. A paper that retains details will appear very sharp and maintain resolution from the image file. Papers that do not retain detail soften the final printed image.
• Texture - Specifically refers to the surface of the paper; papers can be completely smooth or have a textured surface.
• Glare - Is the extent to which light bounces off the surface of the paper when a light is shone on it. Glare can be very distracting and make viewing an image difficult due to reflected lights.
• Color Vibrancy - Refers to the extent of color saturation across the entire spectrum. Photographic paper with high color vibrancy brings out muted tones while avoiding over-saturation of those that are already colorful.
• Brightness - Refers to the base level whiteness and reflectiveness of the paper and how bright the image will be when printed. Some papers have a pure bright white base and can reflect light efficiently to appear brighter than off-white papers, for example.

As you will discover, many of these dimensions correlate with each other across paper types. Furthermore, certain paper properties are more suitable for particular genres of imagery than others.

Glossy photographic paper has high brightness and high glare. Superficially, this might sound like a negative. However, it is exceptional for bringing out deep blacks in photo prints and displaying fine details. Glossy photographic papers are made in several ways. Typically, manufacturers create them by laminating, cast coating, resin coating or multi-coating. These papers offer the most vibrant colors and lack any surface textures. They do tend to stick to the glass when traditionally framed, so it is recommended that larger prints be combined with a rigid backer to prevent this. Glossy papers can also be face-mounted to acrylic for a frameless or framed high-end look and presentation. Glossy tends to be best suited to landscape photography due to its high impact look.

Luster prints have a finely textured surface that lessens the glare of glossy prints. Direct light sources will still produce a sheen on the print surface, but not nearly as much as with glossy. Luster papers offer great color vibrancy and details, and are considered excellent multi-use papers. Luster paper has a pearl-like appearance, which often leads people to use the two names interchangeably. People also refer to it as “semi-gloss” because it sits halfway between gloss and matte. Luster is useful in situations where you want to make a photo viewable from multiple angles and it tends to be less vulnerable to finger prints than gloss.

Matte paper is the lowest brightness paper available. Colors and details are also muted compared to luster and glossy. In general, matte papers resemble traditional fine art papers. They can be smooth or have a slight texture depending on the paper construction. The benefits are a completely glare-free surface and more subdued look that is great with portraits, pastel colors, black and white and other fine art photographs.

Metallic photographic paper is perhaps the most eye-catching option available. It scores high on brightness, color vibrancy and details. Most professional photography labs recommend it for colorful landscapes and cityscapes. It is not ideal for portraiture though, since it can struggle to accurately represent skin tones. The paper surface is smooth like glossy paper, although it has slightly less glare. It is a unique paper that can provide added depth and interest to final prints.

Other Paper Types

Each photo paper manufacturer uses different specifications to produce papers unique to them. A Kodak Endura Luster will have different surface texture, brightness and other attributes when compared to lusters from other manufactures such as Fuji, Red River Paper or Epson. Additionally, some papers are chemically activated photographic paper and others are inkjet specific. There are numerous papers that blend the characteristics discussed above, as well as fine art papers that are made with cotton fiber (cotton rag). Manufacturers such as Canson and Epson produce fine art papers that all offer unique traits.

The Sounds of Silence , Max Foster's limited edition photography print of coast redwoods in Redwood National Park from his Forests & Trees gallery collection. Fine Art Limited Edition of 50. Photo © copyright by Max Foster

Which Type Of Paper Should You Choose?

Which type of paper you choose depends heavily on your application and who will be doing the framing. Black and white images or photos of people often look best with matte. Those wanting a versatile paper suited for bright environments while minimizing glare may choose luster. Landscape photographers will often choose a glossy or metallic paper to produce the most contrast, color vibrancy and overall wow factor. However, these two finishes are highly susceptible to fingerprints so it is recommended to use clean cotton gloves or leave it to a professional framer to handle. Most print labs offer a photo paper sample pack that contains the most popular options for comparison. I recommend ordering these to help see the differences in person so you can make the best decision possible.

Breezy Point , Max Foster's limited edition photography print of Makena Beach, Maui from his Hawaii gallery collection. Fine Art Limited Edition of 50. Photo © copyright by Max Foster

Related Posts

The best photo paper in 2023

Photo paper can significantly impact the quality of your prints. These options will help your printed photographs stand out.

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

When it comes to printing photographs, photo paper tends to take a back seat to printers. While a quality printer is absolutely essential, the photo paper you choose will have a profound impact on how the final image looks in your hands or on the wall. With a wide range of paper types, you can drastically alter your images just with paper selection alone. The best photo paper will give you quality colors and exceptional detail, making your prints sure to impress.

• Best matte: Canson Infinity Rag Photographique Matte
• Best for framing: Epson Ultra Premium Luster
• Best glossy: Canon Photo Paper Pro Platinum
• Best for art prints: Hahnemühle Photo Rag 308 gsm
• Best for black and white: Canson Infinity Platine Fibre Rag 310gsm

How we picked the best photo paper

The writers and editors have decades of experience in nearly every genre and area of photography. I have been printing my own photographs or dealing with commercial printers for around ten years. I have tested many different paper options and printer-specific results during that time. When selecting the papers for this list, I relied on that hands-on experience, as well as the experience of photographers I know. Every photographer and subject matter has different needs and tastes, so I focused on a range of styles and finishes to fit. I looked at weight, thickness, brightness, OBAs, and the range of size options for all papers. Finally, I also chose options from different brands to cover a broader spectrum of papers.

The best photo paper: Reviews & recommendations

Whether you are an artist printing photos for galleries or a portrait photographer selling prints to clients, the right photo paper can make all the difference. The options below are ideal for a range of photographers and types of photographs, so you’re sure to find something that works for you.

Best matte: Canson Infinity Rag Photographique Matte 310 gsm

• Sheet size options: 8.5 x 11 inches, 11 x 17 inches, 13 x 19 inches, 17 x 22 inches
• Roll size options: 17” x 50’, 24” x 50’, 36” x 50’, 44” x 50’, 60” x 50’
• Base material: 100% Cotton rag
• Whiteness: 89.8%
• Weight: 310 gsm
• Thickness: 18.3 mil
• Available in 210 or 310 gsm
• Available as one or two-sided
• Wide selection of sizes in sheets or rolls
• Archival quality
• Pricey for everyday users
• Must search at specialty stores for most sizes

Canson is one of the higher-end paper producers and has been making quality photo paper for a long time. Many photographers prefer the look and feel of matte paper, and the Infinity Rag Photographique Matte is one of the best. It comes in 210 and 310 gsm and has an extensive range of sizes, both in sheet and roll form. With their largest roll, you can print up to 60 inches on the short side, which is massive.

Both weight options have a nice heft, making them sturdy enough to stand up to some large print sizes (still with delicate handling, of course). It produces some rich blacks and highly accurate colors, as long as you are using quality inks and a color-calibrated monitor , that is. It has excellent whiteness without any OBAs, meaning it is fully archival and museum-quality. When handled well, your prints will last for a very long time.

• Size options: 8.5 x 11”, 13 x 19”, 11.7 x 16.5” (A3)
• Base material: Alpha cellulose
• Brightness: 97%
• Weight: 240 gsm
• Thickness: 10 mil 
• Vivid, accurate color
• Dries instantly
• Ideal finish for framing
• Available in packs with up to 250 sheets
• Not a huge selection of sizes
• Not available in rolls

The Epson Ultra Premium Luster paper has been my go-to paper choice for years, especially when I know I will be framing a print behind glass. The luster finish has some gloss, 16 percent at 60° to be precise, to produce rich colors and contrast, but it is subtle enough that you don’t have to contend with much glare. That opens up the possibilities of where you can hang the print as well.

Unfortunately, this paper only comes in four size options. It is also not available in rolls, so you will need to keep reloading your paper feeder if you print a lot. But the Ultra Premium Luster paper has 97 percent opacity, meaning some light will shine through the paper, giving nice depth if hung without mounting of any sort. It also dries instantly after printing, so you don’t have to worry about accidentally touching the print when taking it away from the printer (just watch for fingerprints).

Abby Ferguson

• Sheet size options: 4×6″, 8.5×11″, 11×17″, 13×19″, 17×22″, 
• Roll size options: 17” x 100’ , 23” x 100’, 36” x 100’, 42” x 100’
• Base material: Not provided
• Brightness: 98%
• Weight: 218 gsm
• Thickness: 11.8 mil
• Ultra-glossy for gloss lovers
• Available in sheets and rolls
• Lots of size options, including small sizes
• Vivid colors
• Roll options not widely available
• Color profiles can be finicky if not using Canon printers

The Canon Photo Paper Pro Platinum is part of Canon’s high-end line, though the price doesn’t reflect that. It is an affordable paper, especially given the quality. The Platinum paper is an ultra-high gloss offering with a gloss level of 35 percent at 60 degrees. The high level of shine and 98 percent brightness will help produce incredibly rich color and deep contrast, making it ideal for images that you want to have some extra pop when printed.

The Platinum paper comes in a good range of sizes in sheets and quite a few roll options for when you want to print really large. The rolls are only available on specialty photography websites, however, such as Adorama . 

Canon has specifically designed this to be used with its printers, in this case, the PIXMA line. When used with the ChromaLife100+ inks, Canon says prints will have a life of over 200 years. That doesn’t mean that you can’t use it with other printers, but you won’t have a pre-loaded ICC profile (a specific guide for a printer that accounts for the printer, ink, and paper combination for accurate color). You will have to download a profile from Canon’s website and install it or do some testing to find the best built-in option.

• Sheet size options: 8.5 x 11”, 11 x 17″, 13 x 19”, 17 x 22”, 24 x 30″ 24 x 36″, 35 x 46.75″
• Roll size options: 17” x 39’ , 24” x 39’, 36” x 39’, 44” x 39’, 44″ x 65′
• Base material: Cotton rag
• Brightness: 90%
• Weight: 308  gsm
• Thickness: 18.8 mil
• Available in 188, 308, or 500 gsm 
• Roll and sheet options
• Single and double-sided options
• Acid- and lignin-free for excellent age resistance
• Beautiful texture
• Expensive for the everyday user

For photographers producing high-end fine art prints, Hahnemühle papers are some of the absolute best options available. The Photo Rag Matte option has excellent weight and thickness, resulting in sturdy paper with a beautiful texture. It produces rich blacks and excellent, accurate colors. And it has no additional optical brighteners and is acid and lignin-free, making it archival and museum-quality. Your prints on this paper will last for a very long time.

While many photographers prefer a matte finish for fine art prints, the Photo Rag does come in everything from satin and pearl to glossy and even metallic . It also comes in three different weights, depending on the finish and size you are looking for. Should you want to print large, rolls are also available, though you will need to look at specialty photography stores.

• Sheet size options: 5 x 7” , 8.5 x 11”, 11 x 17”, 13 x 19”, 17 x 22”
• Whiteness: 89%
• Thickness: 15.6 mil
• Wide variety of sizes, including extra large
• Smooth, velvet-like finish
• Exceptional quality

Canson designed its Infinity Platine Fibre Rag to take the familiar fiber-based papers of the darkroom into the digital age. Black and white photographers, especially those who have spent time in a darkroom, will love the classic look and feel. It has a smooth, satin finish that provides a touch of gloss for richer blacks but not so much that it becomes reflective. 

The paper is acid-free, making it archival and long-lasting. It dries instantly and has high water resistance, so you can stress less about your print getting damaged. The 310 weight gives it a nice heft. You can find this paper in an extensive range of sizes, from small five by 7-inch sheets all the way up to a 44-inch roll or even 60-inch wide roll at some sites.

Things to consider when buying the best photo paper

On the surface, choosing a paper seems like a pretty straightforward task. But once you start looking into things, you will notice how many nuanced differences there are, which can get quite overwhelming. However, some factors are more important than others, so read on to learn about the main features to consider.

Printer type

Before narrowing in on a photo paper for your needs, you first need to establish the type of printer you will be using, either inkjet or laser. Photo papers are designed explicitly for one or the other based on how they transfer ink or toner. Using the wrong type of paper can damage your printer or at least result in a low-quality print. 

Inkjet printers are the preferred choice for photo printing needs because of their color accuracy and higher resolution. For the best results, you’ll want a photo-specific printer . While there are a few photo papers for laser printers, the majority you see will be for inkjets. Therefore, all of the papers in this roundup are intended for inkjet printers.

The finish of a paper refers to the surface texture and reflectivity. A paper’s texture and gloss level can make a significant difference in how your images appear when printed. It also impacts the longevity of a print, how it will hide imperfections, and the ideal display method. While there are some niche options, there are three primary choices for paper finish: Glossy, luster, and matte.

• Glossy: As the name implies, glossy papers have a high gloss finish and reflect a lot of light. Glossy papers are the most widely used for photographs because they provide rich, vibrant color and deep contrast. The downside is that they very easily show fingerprints, creases, and other blemishes. They can also have glare issues due to how reflective the surface is.
• Luster: Luster papers–sometimes called pearl, semi-gloss, or satin–still have some shine but are less reflective than glossy. The lower level of reflectivity makes them a popular choice among photographers as glare isn’t as much of an issue when framed and displayed . They have an excellent color and contrast range and tend to have a slight texture on the paper, nicely accentuating image content.
• Matte: Matte papers are the opposite of glossy. These resemble art papers, such as watercolor paper, with their fully non-reflective surface. Because of this, they more easily hide blemishes, which is ideal in certain circumstances. You can find matte papers in a range of texture amounts, from smooth to heavily textured, and different thicknesses as well. Matte papers are popular for fine art prints.

Weight and thickness

Weight and thickness are closely intertwined in their impact but refer to different things, so you will frequently see both items mentioned in product descriptions. The weight refers to the heft of a paper and is measured in grams per square meter (gsm) or pounds. For context, basic copy paper is usually 20 lbs, and standard photo paper is around 60 lbs.

Thickness is simply the thickness of a sheet of paper and is expressed in mils (or thousandths of an inch). As you might assume, thicker papers are more rigid, which can be helpful, especially when printing large, as you don’t need to be quite so cautious about bends and creases. 

A common misconception is that a heavier weight will equal a thicker paper, but this is not always the case. Weight essentially reflects the amount of pulp pressed into a square meter, and you can have heavy-weight papers that are still thin, such as RC papers. A heavy-weight paper does not necessarily correlate with a thicker paper but does result in a stiffer piece.

Brightness, whiteness, and shade are three different factors that all impact how bright a paper–and, therefore, your printed image–appears. It’s important to note that brightness often gets confused with whiteness, though they refer to two different things.

Brightness is the measurement of how much blue light gets reflected off a paper on a 1-100 scale, with the higher number being a brighter paper. The paper’s brightness will impact how bright the brightest part of your image can be and, as a result, the dynamic range as a whole. So if you want a vivid, high-contrast print, a high brightness level will be better.

Whiteness measures the reflection of all wavelengths of light, not just blue light. Because of this, it is much more perceptible to our eyes, and it will be easier to see a difference in whiteness levels than brightness. It is also measured on a 1-100 scale, with higher numbers appearing brighter. However, higher numbers can also have a blueish or cooler tint to them, which will impact the look of your print.

Shade doesn’t take into consideration reflected light at all and instead refers to the actual color of the paper. There are three main options for shade: True white, Blue white, and Cream white. Of course, the lighting conditions you are viewing a paper will also impact the shade. Still, under the same light, true white will look balanced and truly white, while blue-white will have a blue tint, and cream white will have a warm tone.

So, how does all this affect your print? A bright, white paper will give you a higher dynamic range with rich whites and blacks and more vivid color. In contrast, a paper with lower brightness, whiteness, and a cream shade will be duller. There is imagery that calls for warmer, duller papers, but you will want to choose what makes sense for you.

Tied in with brightness and whiteness, but worth paying attention to, in particular, is the use of optical brightness agents (OBAs). OBAs make papers artificially brighter, resulting in numbers beyond the 100-point scale. While this does make the paper brighter, OBAs are known to fade over time and aren’t as archival or long-lasting as papers without OBAs. So, if you are printing museum-quality prints, you should avoid OBAs. 

Q: Is it worth printing your own photos?

Q: what photo paper is better, matte or glossy.

What photo paper is better, between matte and glossy, depends on how you plan to display your print and personal preference. Glossy photos reflect a lot of light and can have heavy glare as a result. Therefore, settings that might increase glare, such as an area with lots of windows, may not be suitable for glossy prints, and a matte finish may be better.  On the flip side, matte finishes tend to have less vibrant colors compared to glossy paper. If you want to emphasize color, such as with a vibrant landscape photo, a matte paper may not be the ideal selection. For bright, vivid colors, glossy will be best.

Q: What does pearl finish on photos look like?

A pearl finish is in between a glossy and matte finish. It will have some reflectivity, though it is not very shiny like a gloss finish. It is very similar to a satin finish as well.

Q: How do I print high-quality photos?

How to print high-quality photos could warrant an entire article, as there are quite a few nitty-gritty details that will impact quality. However, to distill things down for brevity, printing high-quality photos has three main components: -You need to have high-quality, high-resolution photos. -You need to choose a quality paper that will suit the images you are printing and your printer. -Using a high-end, photo-specific printer will help to ensure you get quality prints.

Q: What do professional photographers use to print photos?

Professional photographers will use high-end inkjet photo printers to print their photos. Canon and Epson are the two most common brands for professional quality printers, with multiple options from each brand depending on the size of print needed.

Determining if it is worth printing your own photos comes down to what you intend to do with the images and how frequently you plan on printing. For example, if you are printing for your own enjoyment and only print out your photographs on rare occasions, spending the money on a photo printer, ink, and paper is not really worth it. But, if you are selling prints, printing yourself can give you more control over the final product and allow you to print as soon as you have an order. It could also potentially even save you money from outsourcing the work.

Final thoughts on the best photo paper

While you can get a good idea of a paper from looking at the specs, nothing beats holding it in your hand and seeing your print on it. If you are torn between finishes or types, you can usually find sample packs available from companies to test the options before investing in a whole pack or roll. Printing photos takes a lot of trial and error, so be prepared to go through some different paper types and printer settings before finding the sweet spot for your work.

Why trust us

PopPhoto has a long history of delivering the opinions of some of the sharpest and most prolific camera dorks the world has to offer. Since 1937, we’ve been reviewing cameras, providing wisdom from well-known photographers, and generally just nerding out about all that goes into making great pictures. Our current crop of writers and editors have decades of professional photography and camera writing experience among them. Collectively, we’ve probably shot with just about every camera and lens combo you can imagine—as well as some obscure stuff you may not even know about. Remember the Casio Tryx folding camera? PopPhoto does.

We also get that buying a camera is a big decision, which is why we’re dedicated to helping folks choose the right one (or, in our case “ones”) for their needs. Case in point: Handing over top dollar for an expensive rig may leave you unsatisfied if it doesn’t fit your preferred shooting style. Sure, a $6,000 sports-oriented DSLR can capture landscapes, but do you really need to do it at 30 frames-per-second? No, you don’t.

Abby Ferguson is the Associate Editor for Gear and Reviews at PopPhoto, joining the team in 2022. She has been involved with the photography industry in various capacities since her undergraduate training at the University of Kentucky, with work ranging from client photography to program development and management of the photo department at Evolve, a vacation rental company.

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Photo Printing Paper Types

If you’re planning on printing your photos , then you’re probably struggling to decide between various photo printing paper types.

There are hundreds of paper types, and all of them offer different weights, finishes, materials, and more. 

So what paper type is best? What should you purchase when printing your photography?

That’s what this article is all about. 

I’m going to break it down for you:

What to consider when choosing photo paper. 

The types of photo paper out there. 

And tips for ultimately deciding on the right paper for your needs. 

Sound good?

Let’s get started.

Types of Photo Paper:

Start By Thinking About Your Printer

Before picking a paper type, if you haven’t yet chosen a printer, then be careful.

You see, if you’re aiming to print your photos, you can use any printer you like. Pretty much all of them will give you some sort of print. 

If you’re after high-quality prints, the kind that will really impress viewers and accurately display your images, then you’re going to need a high-end printer. 

I’d recommend going with an inkjet printer . These are far more precise than laser printers, which makes for better resolution and higher quality overall.

And yes, you may have to spend a fair amount on a printer, especially if you’re after pro-quality print jobs. 

But the result is often worth it!

Related Posts

By the way, you might be wondering:

Does your printer affect the paper you can use? 

The answer:

Most paper works in most printers. But if you get paper that matches the brand of the printer, you’ll have an easier time doing color management . Manufacturers will often have color profiles for their own printer-paper combinations, which means that you’ll be able to accurately prepare images for print without any headache (or need to have a custom profile done).

Not really.

Types of Photo Paper to Consider

When it comes to actually choosing from different paper options, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. 

After all, you have papers of all types, labeled with confusing terms, such as satin, luster, glossy, semi-gloss, and more. 

But the truth is that all these terms simply refer to finishes – the way the surface of the paper is treated.

And, in fact, some of the different terms to describe finishes actually have the same meaning; they’re just used by different brands!

Now let’s take a look at the different finish options (including why you might pick each one):

Glossy Paper

Glossy paper is very popular among beginner photographers. It offers vivid colors, fantastic resolution, and a smooth, untextured surface. 

However, glossy paper can have two big issues. 

First, a glossy finish doesn’t have any texture, which gives it less of an artistic feel. And serious photographers tend to be big fans of texture!

Second, a glossy finish is very prone to glare. And when you put a glare-prone image behind glare-prone glass (i.e., if you frame the glossy print), it can make for difficult viewing. 

So while glossy is a viable option, it’s often better to consider one of these other photo printing paper types:

Satin/Semi-Gloss Paper

Satin paper and semi-gloss paper are actually the same thing. 

They refer to a slight gloss finish, which will make your photo smooth, but not that shiny. 

 If you like the way glossy paper produces nice colors and detail, but you’re not a fan of the overall glossy aesthetic, you might want to think about semi-gloss paper. 

Matte Paper

Matte paper is also very popular among intermediate and more serious photographers. 

For one, it’s very cheap (it’s generally cheaper than glossy paper, for instance, because it doesn’t require a pricey coating). 

Matte paper also gives you a nice textured result, which feels very fine-art .

Plus, a matte finish reduces glare, so matte photos are easier to display in galleries or in homes.

Luster and Pearl Paper

Luster paper and pearl paper, like satin paper and semi-gloss paper, are just two names for the same thing. 

Both luster paper and pearl paper offer a beautiful finish, one with vivid colors, but without the smooth look of glossy paper. 

Instead, luster and pearl paper have some texture, which makes for a more artistic look.

In fact, if you’ve ever worked with a wedding or event photographer – and received prints from them – they likely used luster paper, with its pearl-like sheen.

Don’t Get Locked Into One Type of Paper

Here’s a key piece of advice when choosing printing paper:

Don’t find a type of paper you like, buy lots of it, and keep using it.

And here’s why:

Printing paper will always make your photos look slightly different. 

So it pays to try out many different types of photo printing paper. Then, once you find some types you like, buy more. But keep experimenting with other options; you never know what you might find!

Also bear in mind that different types of paper work well for different types of prints. 

While one type of paper might look good for black and white prints , another type might look good for certain types of color prints, etc. 

In other words:

When it comes to paper, keep your options open.

Make Sure You Calibrate Your Monitor and Use Proper Profiles

Whenever you print an image, there are several factors working against you to ensure that your print doesn’t match what you see on your monitor.

First, the monitor itself. If you don’t have your monitor calibrated, then you shouldn’t print. It’s that simple. 

Because if your monitor isn’t calibrated, you’re going to see a result on your monitor that looks different from the result you get when printed. And this is true regardless of any soft proofing you do.

Is it possible to print without a calibrated monitor?

Sure. If you’re not worried about print quality, then go ahead and send through a print. Alternatively, you can print as a test, then adjust your image to compensate for any shifts due to monitor-printer discrepancies. 

But it’ll be frustrating, which is why I’d really recommend you calibrate your monitor from the beginning. 

Second, make sure to use the most accurate possible color profile. This should take into account both the printer and the paper you’re using.

A good printing profile will ensure that your image is properly translated when it’s sent to the printer – so that the colors you see on your monitor are as close as possible to the colors you end up with in your print. 

(Will the colors match perfectly, even with a great profile? No. That’s why it’s often a good idea to make soft proofs, hard proofs, or both. But a color profile is a key part of creating consistent, accurate prints.)

Without a calibrated monitor, and without a proper profile, you’ll struggle to get good prints. 

However, with both those items out of the way, you have a good shot at achieving truly beautiful results.

If Your Photo Doesn’t Look Good, Then Neither Will Your Print

Here’s a common misconception among first-time printers:

That the paper will dramatically affect your photo quality. 

But while it’s true that the paper matters, and poor-quality paper will give you a poor-quality print…

…if you’re using good paper and you’re not getting good results, it could be that your image file isn’t good.

You should always make sure that your image file is large enough (i.e., that your camera has enough megapixels, that you didn’t use a huge crop, that you didn’t heavily adjust the image, etc.).

You should also make sure there aren’t any image quality issues present in the file. 

Because while high-ISO noise or various small blemishes might not be noticeable on your computer monitor, it’ll show up much more clearly in the final print. 

Even botched cloning/healing jobs will stand out in a final print, so make sure you carefully go over your image file before printing, especially if you’ve done any cloning or compositing.

Keep Your Print Safe (And Out of the Sun!)

Here’s a final printing paper tip for you:

While inkjet paper tends to have impressive longevity…

…if you don’t store your print in the right place, the longevity won’t matter much.

Here’s what you should keep in mind:

First, it’s important that your images stay out of direct sunlight. More sunlight makes for faster fading, which means that your image quality will quickly increase. 

Second, make sure you keep your paper out of humid areas (unless you’re working with other printing mediums , such as acrylic or metal ). Humidity and paper really don’t get along. 

Third, if possible, frame your print. This will protect it from dirt and fingerprints (though it will introduce glare, so there is a tradeoff).

If you follow all of these tips, your print will remain in tip-top shape, often for decades upon decades!

Photo Printing Paper Types: The Next Steps

Now that you’ve finished this article, you should be able to comfortably choose the best photo printing paper types for your needs.

And you should be able to keep your eventual prints looking as nice as possible for as long as possible!

So make sure you get your printer paper. 

If you’re after beautiful results, high-quality paper is essential!

What are the types of photo paper?

There are four common types of photo paper: glossy paper, matte paper, satin/semi-gloss paper, and luster/pearl paper. Glossy paper creates a vivid, shiny look, plus it’s cheap, which is why you’ll often find casual photo albums filled with glossy prints. Matte paper has a very fine-art look, thanks to its textured finish, and is often used for professional display. Satin/semi-gloss paper and luster/pearl paper sit between these two options, with satin offering a smooth finish while retaining vibrant colors, and luster offering a textured finish and stunning colors.

Should you use inkjet or laser printers for photos?

I’d highly recommend using an inkjet printer for your photos. Inkjet printers are far more accurate than laser printers, and they’ll ensure that you get the best-possible prints!

Is matte paper better than glossy paper for printing photos?

Most professionals prefer matte paper over glossy paper, because the textured finish has a very refined look. However, matte paper doesn’t offer colors quite as vibrant as glossy paper, so that’s something to bear in mind when printing.

Does paper have its own printing profile?

Yes! Every paper will affect the colors and tones of your photo differently. This is why manufacturers often offer printer-paper profiles, which consider a particular printer and a particular type of paper. Note that if you don’t have a profile for your paper, you can still print, but the print will likely be different from what you expect. If you don’t have a profile for your paper but you want one, you can get your printer profiled, which costs money but can be worth it if you love a paper type but don’t feel like you can get consistent results from it.

What kind of photo paper do professionals use?

Professionals use different kinds of photo paper depending on their needs. If you’re printing for an art fair or a gallery display, matte paper is often the way to go, because the textured finish makes for beautiful, stately prints (plus, the lack of shine prevents glare). If you’re printing for a wedding album, luster is one of the most popular finishes; these prints will look high-quality while retaining bright colors. That said, professionals will occasionally use glossy or satin prints, so don’t feel like you must have one printing paper type to get pro-level results!

Photography 101: All Tutorials

• Camera Basics
• Composition
• Natural Light
• Artificial Light
• Editing Photos
• Choosing Gear
• Printing Photos

Jaymes Dempsey is a professional macro and nature photographer from Ann Arbor, Michigan; his work is published across the web, from Digital Photography School to PetaPixel. You can connect with Jaymes on Instagram , Facebook , and LinkedIn .

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2 thoughts on “Photo Printing Paper Types”

Are photo papers the same as papers used in darkrooms ?

Can someone recommend Chemises? Thanks xxx

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12 Best Photo Papers for Inkjet Printers in 2024

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Finding the best photo paper for your inkjet printer can be daunting. There are so many different brands and varieties. It can be difficult to know which is right for you. We look at the 12 best photo papers for inkjet printers. This includes products from Canon, HP, Epson, and more!

The Canon luster photo paper tops our list. The print quality is exceptional. And the luster finish gives your photos a professional look. The prints are suitable for sale and gallery display and don’t fade over time.

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As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

What is the Best Photo Paper?

There are many different photo papers on the market. Different types of paper give you different results. There are different price ranges. And many companies produce high-quality photo paper.

We have more information on paper types in the section below. We look at their size, thickness, and finish in detail. This information will help you find the exact photo paper you need.

Here’s a quick overview of our list of the best photo paper for inkjet printers. We’ll look at each paper in more detail in the following section. Or you can skip to the Finding the Best Photo Paper section at the end of the article.

• Compatible with all inkjet printers
• Bright and vibrant color photo prints
• Luster finish gives you high-quality, glare-free photos
• Durable and long-lasting prints
• Quality guaranteed by Canon
• Perfect for creating quality, everyday photo prints
• Optimized for HP ink and toner
• Vivid colors and sharp images
• Glossy finish for a professional look
• Environmentally sustainable
• High-quality paper for best prints
• Semi-gloss finish for realistic effect
• Vibrant colors and sharp details
• Durable, long-lasting prints that don't fade
• Instant drying for quick handling

• Smooth non-glare finish is ideal for gallery display
• High-contrast clarity and precision details
• Ideal for vibrant color prints
• Super-fast drying times so there's no smudging
• Heavyweight stock for strong and durable prints

• Professional results for publication, sale, and display
• Vibrant colors and vivid details
• Exceptional lightfast—no discoloring when exposed to light
• Instant dry so there's no risk or smudges or smears
• Exceptional longevity with no fading for years

• Affordable photo paper for home or enthusiast-level printing
• Thin yet strong material
• Glossy finish for vivid pictures
• No smudging with instant-dry quality

• High-quality paper that gives you long-lasting photos
• Bright, glossy finish with true-to-life colors
• Excellent for prints up to 8.5 x 11 inch
• Ideal for preserving memories
• Environmentally friendly

• Impressive color and tone reproduction
• High contrast and sharpness
• Instant-dry and smudge-proof finish
• Triple-coated for extra durability
• Acid-free for long-lasting prints

• Premium glossy finish
• High color gamut for vibrant images
• Ink dries in an instant so there's not risk of smudging or running
• Smudge- and water-resistant, providing security against wear and tear
• Exceptionally thick for long-lasting photos

• Excellent value for a premium paper
• Brilliant white color works well with black-and-white photographs
• The prints are the perfect size for sale
• High-quality smudge-resistant prints
• Ideal for professional-grade photos

• Perfect for newsletters, flyers, reports, and arts and crafts
• Sharp and vivid colors
• Works with all inkjet printers
• Resistant to water and durable
• Fade-resistant for long-lasting prints

• Crisp and bright prints
• Instant drying for water-based inks
• Fast-drying and smudge-free
• Long-lasting quality

12 Best Photo Papers for InkJet Printers

Here are the top photo papers for inkjet printers. We’ve included something for every photographer. We have everyday photo papers for printing your favorite holiday snaps. And we have premium papers for professional photo printing .

1. Canon Luster

Hitting that sweet spot between glossy and matte, this Canon luster photo paper lifts images without making them sparkle. It is ideal if reflected light is a problem. And at 260 gsm (grams per square meter), it has some heft.

The finish helps to resist smudging. And Canon, of course, recommends using Canon ink . Photographers will appreciate the range of available sizes, which goes up to 9 x 13 inches (22.8 x 33 cm).

2. HP Everyday Glossy

As with all the major inkjet printer manufacturers, HP recommends using HP ink with its photo paper for added print durability. And HP paper tends to produce better results if you have an HP printer. This is certainly true when it comes to cheaper photo paper.

The HP everyday glossy photo paper is reliable, with the added appeal of FSC certification . That means you can expect good-quality prints every time. And the standard is very good for good-value, sustainable paper. You’ll have a fabulous collection of printed photos for your walls, mantles, and albums.

3. Epson Premium Semi-Gloss

There’s not much to choose between luster and semi-gloss. And this Epson premium semi-gloss photo paper is designed to replicate the resin-coated papers of a photo lab. Epson claims their inks have a degree of water resistance, meaning an accidental splash won’t spell disaster!

This is a heavy paper that should give fabulous results for display purposes. And it’s available up to 13 x 9 inches (33 x 22.8 cm). The quality of the colors, details, and finish give you photo prints you can display or sell.

4. Epson Presentation Matte

The weight of this Epson matte presentation paper means it is more multi-purpose than the glossy paper reviewed earlier. By its very nature, matte photo paper produces excellent text quality. So while this paper will produce sharp images, it can also be used for brochures and reports.

This paper is a bit flimsy for passing photos back and forth a lot between friends. But your black and white prints will look good without breaking the bank.

5. Hahnemuhle High Glossy

This is high-glossy baryta photo paper . It’s from the highly-respected German company Hahnemühle. They have been manufacturing paper on the same site since the 16th century. And they’ve set the standard for their environmental credentials.

This photo paper gets the “rag” in its subtitle because it’s made from 100% cotton fibers left over from textile manufacturing. At 315 gsm, this is another heavyweight photo paper aimed at long-lasting displays and fine art.

A high-gloss finish provides crisp detail. And the cotton paper gives a natural warmth to highlights.

It’s available in various sizes, including rolls up to 64 inches ((1.62 m) wide. Hahnemühle offers a sample set of six different photo papers, including two sheets of each type.

You can download Hahnemühle ICC profiles for all their photo papers if you’re very technical and detailed. That gives you a better idea of what you can expect before printing your best photos.

6. Koala Glossy Thin InkJet

This glossy photo paper from Koala is excellent for at-home printing. It’s excellent value, so you don’t need to take out a loan to print a full holiday album. And the colors and detail are excellent. They will be worthy of display in anyone’s home.

The photo paper is thin. That can be handy for some photographers. But it also means the photos are more susceptible to wear and tear. You’ll need something stronger for professional displays or selling prints . But it’s an excellent photo paper for sharing with families and friends.

7. HP Premium Plus

At 300 gsm, this HP Premium Plus paper has a quality feel to it. And the glossy finish produces clear, crisp images. This photo paper receives high praise in customer reviews. And it is another HP photo paper that is FSC certified (environmentally friendly).

The glossy surface is water-resistant and resists smudges by drying instantly. The colors and details are outstanding. And there’s very little fading over time, so your memories stay strong for years.

8. Ilford Galerie Prestige

Ilford has been making photo paper since 1879. And it was one of the first traditional photo paper manufacturers to move into digital media. The Ilford Galerie Prestige smooth, pearl photo paper has a non-reflective surface that dries instantly.

It is available in a range of sizes up to 17 x 22 inches. And used with HP Vivera inks, this photo paper has been assessed by Wilhelm Imaging Research as having a permanence rating for over 200 years.

9. Canon Platinum Pro PT-101

Canon’s flagship premium glossy photo paper was developed from the previous Paper Pro PR-101. The Platinum PT-101 combines deep, rich blacks with a neutral, natural-looking white. The glossy surface gives crispness to the final print. And the surface of the coating helps improve drying times.

10. Epson Ultra Premium

Instant-dry and compatible with all printers, Epson’s Ultra Premium photo paper produces images with brilliance and deep gloss. The color rendition is bright and accurate. And the tones are true-to-life, giving accurate renditions of your finest photographs.

It is available in various sizes up to 8.5 x 11 inches. The ink dries instantly and has a degree of water resistance in case of accidents. And it gives you durable prints that last a long time.

11. Uinkit Presentation

What sets Unkit’s presentation matte paper apart is that it prints double-sided. Not much use if you’re hoping to display your photos, but in that case, you would probably opt for a heavier weight stock.

But it does offer a solution for many situations beyond printing reports. Cards, brochures, and leaflets will benefit from having a smooth, printable surface on both sides.

Despite being relatively inexpensive, it produces bright colors. And the surface and thickness help to avoid the bleed-through that you would get with ordinary 80 gsm office paper.

It’s not paper you’d use whenever you want to print your photos. But it’s ideally suited for specific purposes.

12. Amazon Basics Glossy

At 56 lbs / 200 gsm, Amazon’s basic glossy paper will probably be the lightest paper you would want to use for a durable record of your photos. It is treated with a smudge-resistant surface designed to prevent tackiness.

It’s also available in 5 x 7 inches (12.7 x 17.8 cm) and US letter size (8.5 x 11 inches or 21.6 x 27.9 cm). The overall quality of the photos is very high despite the value-price and branding.

It’s a good choice if you need to print a lot of photos but don’t want to break the bank. You will need something stronger for selling prints. But this paper produces excellent photos for family and friends.

Finding the Best Photo Paper

Although we live in a digital world, there’s nothing quite like looking at photos in your hands. And what photographer doesn’t like having their best photos displayed on a wall in all their glory?

But choosing an appropriate printer and the best photo paper to print your masterpieces can be confusing. A quick online search of local electronics shops returned 154 results for “photo papers.”

So we’ll narrow down your choices to determine the best photo paper for your inkjet printer. Inkjet printers are a modern miracle that we take for granted. But getting the best out of them means carefully choosing the right paper and ink.

How to Decide What Paper is Best for You

When choosing the best photo paper for inkjet printers, we must make a few choices. What weight is best? Which finish is best? Most of the answers to these questions will be determined by a few factors:

• What do you want to do with the print?
• How and where will you display it?
• What are your printer’s capabilities?

If your printer doesn’t have a direct paper feed, you are limited in the weight of paper you can use. It’s worth checking, as many printers have a rear slot for envelopes or heavyweight paper. Check the manual to establish the maximum weight that works for your printer.

Relatively cheap photo paper lets you print out photos for making cards or putting them on display. But for higher-quality display purposes, you want paper with a heavier weight. And you also want the better finish you get from high-quality photo paper.

What is Paper Weight?

We live in a connected world, but there are still some significant areas of divergence. One of these is how we define paper types. In the US, paper weight is expressed in pounds (lb). And everywhere else, it’s listed as grams per square meter (g/m2 or, more commonly, “gsm”).

With US paper, you might also find the type of paper included listed as “80 lb cover paper” or “80 lb text paper.” These are two different weights of paper—216 gsm and 118 gsm, respectively.

And weight, of course, measures thickness. The heavier the listed weight, the thicker the paper is. The everyday printer paper we use for printing our essays and letters to the bank manager is usually 80 gsm. This same paper is listed as 54 lbs in the US.

In general, fine art paper is thicker. And everyday paper comes in a variety of weights.

Choosing the Correct Paper Size

And to add to the fun, the sizes are often different. US letter size (8.5 x 11 inches or 21.6 x 27.9 cm) is standard for regular office printing, whereas others would use A4 (8.3 x 11.7 or 21 x 29.7 cm).

The good news is that a normal photo, which you might send your granny for the holidays, works well in both imperial (4 x 6 inches) and metric (10 x 15 cm). And even better news, this is the same ratio of a full frame or APS-C photo, which is 2:3.

Printer, Ink, and Paper Quality

It seems obvious, but the quality of your printer will have a big impact on the quality of your prints. If you want fine art photography prints, then you will need a high-quality printer to print on high-quality photo paper. You will also need to know about pigment inks and how they react with the paper’s surface.

Do you need archive-quality art paper that will be resistant to UV light? Do you want a textured matte finish , like canvas , or do you need sticky-backed photo paper?

And if you want to preserve our environment, one of your criteria might be increased sustainability. Some papers carry certification from the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). This certification addresses sustainability factors. It covers the production, packaging, and transportation of goods.

What Finish Should You Choose?

The surface finish of the paper has a significant impact on the final print. It can affect how visible the image is, especially if there’s glare where you’re displaying it. You also want to consider the finish if you’re displaying it behind glass.

The finish can also determine how much your picture “pops” off the page. You can read our articles comparing photo paper finishes:

• Luster vs glossy
• Glossy vs matte

In conclusion, Canon Luster photo paper is the best for inkjet printers. It offers a great combination of brightness and vividness, resulting in beautiful and vibrant images.

We’ve also shown budget photo papers for use at home. They might not have the dazzling pro finish of the premium brands. But they still give you gorgeous photographs you can display at home or share with friends. So there’s a photo paper for every photographer!

Popular Content

Inkjet Paper for Photographers: What to Consider and How to Choose

With the advent of desktop publishing, desktop printers have become incredibly advanced, to the point where desktop printers can handle many tasks formerly reserved for specialty printing shops. One area in particular – photo printing – has advanced to the point where it is possible to print museum or heirloom quality photo prints from an inkjet printer.

When choosing paper for your inkjet printer, photographers need to understand the differences between printers that are able to print images and the various types of printer paper that work with them. Things to consider when choosing a printer are: what printer you already have or need to purchase for the aesthetic preference of your prints, cost, print fidelity, and how the print will be used can be all factor into the decision of which paper is right for your project .

A short review of the types of photo printer and the papers that have been specially formulated for them will help first-time buyers navigate the complex world of inkjet photo printers and paper.

What is the Difference Between Laser and Inkjet Printers?

There are two significant technologies when it comes to desktop printers – laser printing and inkjet printing. Both technologies have the same goal – that of creating letters and images on the printed page.

Inkjet Printers

Inkjet printers rely on the process of applying liquid ink directly onto the printed page through a print head that is equipped with dozens of micro-nozzles. The printer sprays microscopic drops of ink onto the page and depending on whether the ink is dye or pigment-based, the ink may either change the color of the paper itself or form deposits on the surface of the paper.

Laser Printers

Laser printers use the medium of ‘toner,’ which is a dry powder made up of micro polymers. The laser printer uses a laser to generate an electrostatic charge, which is used to attract the toner powder to the print surface. Then heat is used to bond the toner to the surface of the paper permanently.

General Takeaways for Both Inkjet and Laser Printers

Inkjet Printer

• Inkjet printers tend to be smaller than laser printers. 
• Inkjet printers are better at printing images or photos.
• Inkjet printers tend to be cheaper to purchase upfront, but are more costly to operate over time. If you only need to make occasional prints, inkjet printers may be the more affordable option.
• Inkjet printers print in higher resolution for images and on more archival (meaning it lasts longer) and, therefore, better printer paper

Laser Printer

• Laser printers tend to be better for printing documents.
• Laser printers tend to have higher upfront purchase costs, but their long-term operational costs are lower, mostly because their supplies tend to last longer.
• If you need to keep your cost-per-page as low as possible, a laser printer may be the better choice for you.

What is the Difference Between Laser Printer Photo Paper and Inkjet Photo Paper?

Laser and inkjet printing technologies use similar principles when generating color images on paper. Both laser printers and inkjet printers apply a delivery medium to the print surface using a mix of four base colors – Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Black.

Using pure colors and combining the various amount of each color medium creates mid-tones, which makes it possible to print a broad spectrum of colors. Still, both types of printers have very different techniques for applying color to the printed page.

Laser printers use micro polymer powder (toner) as the color medium. They lay the material onto the print surface in consecutive layers and then bond the toner to the page by running the paper through a series of the heated roller at the end of the print cycle.

Inkjet printers spray their color medium (colored ink) directly onto the print surface. To help ensure sharp, colorful results, the paper that has been explicitly formulated for inkjet printing has a layer of receiving chemicals on the paper itself, which helps to control the wet ink and keep it from spreading on smudging.

The differences in the two print technologies mean that paper, which has been specially formulated for either type of printer, will not work very well with printers of the other type.

So-called ‘normal’ printer paper is rated by its weight. Most standard paper for office use is rated at either 80gsm (grams per square meter), 90gsm, or 100gsm. Regular printer paper will work fine for printing simple text documents in either type of printer. Still, it generally does not fare very well when used for printing images that are heavily saturated with color on an inkjet printer.

What Happens If You Use Inkjet Photo Paper in a Laser Printer, or Vice-Versa?

Paper that has been specially designed for laser printing has a special coating on it that is designed to melt the colored toner and fuse it in place on the print surface. Using this type of paper in an inkjet printer can result in the liquid ink failing to be absorbed into the paper surface. Instead, the ink can pool on the surface of the paper, running off or adhering to anything that happens to touch it while it is wet.  

The paper specifically formulated for inkjet printers has a special chemical coating designed to trap and hold liquid ink in place. Using this paper in laser printers exposes the chemical coating to heat during the printing process, which can cause it to melt, damaging the print mechanisms inside the printer.

One other factor to be aware of is that generally, the path of paper through inkjet printers is more straightforward than the print path of paper through a laser printer. This means that often paper formulated especially for use in inkjet printers tends to be of a heavier weight and may not pass easily through the internal mechanisms of a laser printer.

What Type of Printer is Better for Color Photographs?

It is well accepted that inkjet technology produces better print quality for high resolution, photographic images, especially when using paper that is specially formulated for inkjet printing when compared to color laser printing.

However, the best printer for color prints is a digital Chromogenic print. A digital Chromogenic (digital c-type or c-print) is also known as a Lambda print or LightJet print and is a traditional photographic print, made from a digital file rather than a negative, and is a combination of the digital printing process and traditional analog color darkroom process. It uses lasers or LED lights to “paint” and expose the digital image onto light-sensitive paper instead of a film negative and enlarger. Once the image is exposed onto the color paper it uses the traditional analog color darkroom process to develop the print. Since this method uses the traditional analog color process in combination with digital printing, this type of print is more color accurate, has a sharper image, as well as has a higher color saturation than inkjet printing.

Giclée Vs InkJet Printing

A type of inkjet printing that is more suited for fine art is called a Giclée print. This method of printing is similar to the desktop inkjet printing process in that it uses a spray of color drops on paper to create the images but better in every way. There are many ways that giclée is superior to desktop inkjet prints. The inks and paper involved in the process are archival (meaning they will last a long time if kept properly), much better color accuracy and saturation due to the wider color gamut used in this printing process, and the image is sharper.

Recapturing the Lost Art of Photo Printing

Each of the steps consisted of its skills and offered distinct experiences and emotional rewards to the photographer. For example, the experience of shooting the photos in the field might be calm, contemplative, or even thrilling, depending on the subject and situation. 

The second step of developing and printing the shot film was one of discovery and revelation. A photographer could not help but develop an intimate relationship with their work as the artist undertook the deliberate steps of the photo development process.

Today, photography is almost entirely digital. Photographers shoot their subjects, and then manipulate their photo data on a computer and finally share the final image on an online platform – losing much of the second stage of the traditional process.

Printing your photos can replace the intimate, tactile pleasure of turning your images into physical works of art. The act of creation, coupled with the fact that printing yields a physical art object, can be intensely satisfying.

Printing your photos can also help to present your work in a speedy way to anyone who happens to see your photos in a way that they might never experience if they stumbled across your hard-drive, your memory cards, or even your raw photo data.

Why Would You Want to Print Your Photos?

• There are several excellent practical reasons for you to print your photos.
• Printing your photos gives you an excellent reason to curate your photo collection. Stepping through series and finding the best shots to preserve while culling less desirable photos can help to familiarize you with your collection and eliminate substandard images.
• JPEG data can deteriorate over time. When a JPEG image is opened, edited, saved, and closed again, raw data in the image can be lost. While merely moving files or copying them does not result in degradation, repeated edits can damage valuable photo data.
• Printed photos are tangible reminders of the art and craft of photography. They can make excellent inspirational pieces for you as a photographer, and they can also make thoughtful gifts for others. People buy decorative photos every day – imagine how much more meaningful it might be to receive a photo that had been shot and printed by the artist themselves.
• There are archival benefits. A complete and carefully documented photo collection is often the best way to enjoy your art and your memories fully.

How Can Printing Your Photos Make You a Better Photographer?

Beyond enhancing the pleasure of the art form, printing your photographs can also help to make you a better photographer. Printed photos take on a very different character to photos seen on a digital screen. They can reveal a lot about your photography gear, your photographic technique, and your abilities as a photographer.

One massive difference between a printed photo and a digital representation is the simple fact that the print is not backlit on a display screen. 

Another big difference is in the resolution of the printed image. Seeing an image printed out in a non-luminous format will often reveal a great deal about the ‘truth’ of the details – precisely what is visible and what is not.

Seeing the printed images of your photos might also bring out details about your technique as an artist and editor – framing, composition, timing, texture, and detail – these all are magnified when viewing a printed image as compared to a digital version of the data.

How Do You Organize Your Printed Photos?

Many photographers struggle with the issue of how to organize their printed photos. There are a few simple steps that can significantly aid in that process.

• Print statement pieces, intended to work as decor in the home or office. Pick the work that you are most proud of and print it at a size that makes a bold statement, such as 36″ by 48″. Then frame the piece or pieces.
• Always label your photos with ink. Pencil markings can fade or rub off over time. Be sure to sign your pieces, and include the dates when they were shot and printed.
• Invest in simple photo storage solutions. Many hobby and craft stores offer simple boxes designed to store photos. Many of those same stores offer simple binders with insert sleeves that can hold photos.
• Once you settle on a storage solution, a simple filing system – for example, one based on years and months – can ensure that you or anyone will have convenient access to your photos in the future.
• Reserve a safe space for your photos. Making room for your most treasured photos in a fireproof safe or storage box can help to ensure that they survive any unforeseen disasters that might befall them. Storage that can withstand fire, flood, or pests can be a wise investment.

What is the Difference Between Black Ink and Photo Black Ink?

Many inkjet printers require two types of ink – a black ink cartridge, and also a photo black ink cartridge. The black ink cartridge is filled with pigment-based ink, ideal for printing black and white documents.

The photo black ink cartridge is formulated with a dye-based ink with enables the printer to create deeper, richer spot blacks, and also to print the much more comprehensive range of grays and off-black tones needed for photographic subjects.

One frequently asked the question is – can an inkjet printer work if only one type of black ink is installed and not the other? The short answer to that question is – no. If a printer can take both types of ink cartridges, it will require both types to work correctly.

What Is Inkjet Photo Paper?

Just as inkjet printers may be equipped to render a more fantastic range of colors or black tones for photographic prints, the paper selection for photo prints can also yield very different results in the final image.

There are a wide variety of sheens and textures available for paper designed for use in inkjet printers. Many of the types of paper are designed explicitly for particular formulations of photo black ink, as described above.

The following types of paper are designed for use with printers that utilize photo (or glossy) black ink:  

Other papers are designed to utilize matte black printer ink, including:

• Alpha-cellulose

Photo papers such as glossy, luster, pearl, satin, and metallic utilize photo (or glossy) black ink while matte papers such as cotton, alpha-cellulose, and canvas utilize matte black ink.

How Do I Choose Inkjet Paper for Photo Prints?

Ultimately it is up to each artist to decide which photo paper is ‘right’ for their photographs, but there are some general tips that can help artists pick the right paper for their work.

• Start With Small Orders. Don’t over-commit to any paper right away. Small numbers of sheets will help to ensure that you’re not tied to any particular brand or set of visual characteristics for your work.
• Try Sample Packs. Many paper manufacturers offer sample packs that include a few sheets of a number of their most popular types of paper. A sample pack can give you access to a wide variety of paper compositions and sheens for test prints, better enabling you to decide on the right final print medium for your work. 

What Is RC Inkjet Photo Paper?

The term RC has carried over into the inkjet printing market. Today’s RC papers are produced from refined wood pulp, which is encased in two layers of plastic polyethylene and then coated with a microporous inkjet receptive emulsion.

RC paper surfaces range from glossy to semi-glossy, luster, pearl, satin, and more. They are the least expensive and most widely used inkjet papers on the market and are used by a majority of consumers. Current RC papers are more waterproof and scuff and scratch-resistant than other matte papers on the market, but they tend to come in thinner weights of paper.

RC papers deliver deep blacks and white whites and offer excellent contrast and sharpness. They are certainly appropriate for a variety of subject matter and are often the go-to paper for wedding photo prints and portraits.

What is Metallic Inkjet Photo Paper?

Metallic photo paper is a relatively new invention and a prevalent innovation. Metallic Photo Paper was based on Kodak Endura Premier Metallic paper, which was a professional negative paper designed for wet chemical processing.

Metallic inkjet photo papers have a slightly warm base tone and feature a high degree of luminance and reflectivity. Prints on metallic photo paper exhibit rich, dense blacks, a broad range of color and contrast, and lend an almost three-dimensional look to images.

Metallic photo paper is a popular choice for a wide range of subject matter, most especially images that feature high-sheen metals such as machinery, cars, trucks, trains, planes, etc. 

What is Baryta Inkjet Photo Paper?

The term baryta comes from the chemical compound barite – a naturally occurring, clay-like combination of barium and sulfate – which was added to the fiber paper base to whiten the paper, provide reflectivity, and to serve as a base for light-sensitive emulsion.

Today’s baryta inkjet photo papers are widely considered to the gold standard for fine photographic prints with a large dynamic range, rich blacks, a wide range of colors, excellent contrast, and incredible sharpness. 

There is also a newer crossover category of baryta papers created over a fiber base – either cotton fiber or cellulose. These new papers vary widely in how they absorb and spread ink as well as in their specific coatings and surface textures. 

When choosing a fiber-based baryta paper, it’s critical to match the print surface with the correct black ink formulated to compensate for the differences between matte and photo paper.

What is Cotton Fiber Inkjet Photo Print Paper?

Cotton fiber photo print papers are the highest grade of fine art matte printer paper. Cotton fiber photo print paper is the ‘Cadillac’ of paper types, used by artists wanting the ultimate in fine art quality prints.

Note that the term ‘rag’ paper (cotton rag or photo rag) is sometimes used colloquially to describe these papers – a holdover from days past when cloth rags were used to make paper. But this moniker is inaccurate – cloth rags are no longer used to create cotton fiber photo print paper.

What is Alpha Cellulose Inkjet Photo Paper?

Alpha Cellulose Photo Papers are made of high-grade wood pulp from trees, which is refined to remove unwanted compounds such as acid and lignin. 

Lignins are organic polymers present in plant cells and serve as glue to hold cellulose fibers together. However, if lignins are not removed during the papermaking process, the paper may break down or yellow over time. 

Alpha-cellulose papers are a less expensive option than cotton fiber photo papers. They offer good ink retention and black highlights but have a less substantial feel than their cotton rag counterparts.

What Are Hot and Cold Press Papers?

Hot press or cold press describe subcategories of cotton fiber or alpha-cellulose paper and describe surface characteristics of the print surface.

Hot press papers have a smooth, velvety surface while cold press papers feature rougher surfaces with more ‘tooth.’

Cold press variants offer a greater range of textures than hot press, ranging from slightly textured to highly textured.

What is Canvas Inkjet Paper?

Canvas photo print papers are formulated with a combination of polyester and cotton fibers. These papers can be varnished and displayed without glass or frames, making them a popular choice with artists who work in traditional mediums like watercolor and favor so-called giclée reproductions of their original works. 

What Are Specialty Inkjet Papers?

Specialty or exotic inkjet photo papers include substrates such as Bamboo, Sugar Cane, Kozo (or Japanese Mulberry), and even Hemp.

Common Technical Terms Used in Photo Printing

Several technical terms are used to define the characteristics of print paper. Some of the stats listed below can be found on the data provided by paper manufacturers, while others may make little or no mention of them.

A complete compendium is too numerous to list, and industry terminology changes rapidly, but the following definitions should provide a stable grounding as an introduction to the topic.

Paper Weight and Thickness

Paperweight is specified as grams per square meter (gsm). A paper’s thickness is specified in mils, or mm. Art buyers, fine art photographers, and collectors tend to prefer thicker paperweights for their substantial, tactile feel and surface texture. Weight and thickness set high-end art print paper from their plastic counterparts such as RC glossy, luster, satin, or pearl papers.

OPAs and Paper Brightness

OPAs (optical brightening agents) are fluorescent additives included in the paper creation process to increase paper whiteness and overall brightness. OPAs trick the viewer’s eyes into perceiving a brighter white by reflecting more blue light off the page.

Photographers have always favored brighter white papers because they offered rich, deep blacks, and a wide dynamic range of colors and OBAs can enhance the quality of printed photographs. 

But their use is highly controversial because these agents break down over time, causing paper using them to degrade to its native white point, which changes the appearance of the print.

If a paper is described as Bright White or Natural – Bright indicates that the paper was created using OBAs, while Natural papers were not. 

Paper White Points

There are many variations of white, including snow white, eggshell, creamy, off-white, etc. Warmer or cooler tones suit different subjects. Most photographers tend to avoid very bright white papers for portraits or color landscapes, while black and white or neutral images tend to pop on brighter backgrounds.

DMax refers to the deepest shade of black that a paper is capable of rendering. Black density is one of the most important considerations when choosing paper type. Papers specifically formulated for photo printing have DMX values greater than 2 (>2), while matte papers tend to have a DMax value of less than 2 (<2).

Surface Texture

As discussed above, there are a wide variety of surface textures available on the market today. Textures range from highly glossy to rough and textured.

Print Permanence

One of the critical characteristics of paper selection is print permanence. Print permanence refers to the longevity of a print made by a specific combination of printer, ink, and paper, and under given display conditions.

Preservation of the print is of paramount importance for any printer, primarily if the art is intended for sale to collectors or museums.

Several factors contribute to the degradation of print permanence. Direct sunlight, high humidity, or extreme temperatures can degrade even a high-quality print on premium paper.

As we have seen, there are many excellent reasons to print your photos, and some factors to consider with selecting paper for use when printing.

Start with the printer, subject, and display conditions and then choose an appropriate paper for price and ink compatibility.

My name is Lee Jones, MFA and I'm the professor behind The Photography Professor. My goal is to answer your questions about film-based photography in a format that is easy to read and understand.

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• Yields highly saturated images, while maintaining excellent highlight and shadow detail.
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For photographers seeking a flat matte surface, Ultra Premium Presentation Paper Matte is the ideal choice. This bright white paper is perfect for images that do not require gloss. It yields highly saturated images, while maintaining excellent highlight and shadow detail. Designed primarily for use with UltraChrome™ Inks, EPSON Archival™ Inks, and DuraBrite™ Inks, this versatile paper can also be used with dye-based inks. Hobbyists, professional photographers and digital artists alike will find Epson Ultra Premium Presentation Paper Matte a remarkable solution for any project.

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20+ Photography Presentation Templates for PowerPoint (+ Photo Album PPTs)

Are you in the photography business? Does your boss want you to develop a presentation on photography? Maybe a client wants to see a PowerPoint photo presentation with your portfolio.

Photo presentation templates save you time. All you’ve got to do is add the information and images you want to add. Voila! You’ve got a professional PowerPoint presentation that’s ready to present. There’s no wasted time trying to come up with a theme or design.

In this article, we bring you photography PowerPoint templates for every budget. These PowerPoint photography templates are more professional, modern, and creative, and can be easily customized to your specific needs in just a few clicks.

How Does Unlimited PowerPoint Templates Sound?

Download thousands of PowerPoint templates, and many other design elements, with a monthly Envato Elements membership. It starts at $16 per month, and gives you unlimited access to a growing library of over 2,000,000 presentation templates, fonts, photos, graphics, and more.

Minimal PPT Templates

Clean & clear.

Ciri Template

Pitch Deck Templates

Startup pitch deck.

Explore PowerPoint Templates

Potraits – Photography PowerPoint Template

If you’re looking to get your hands on the best photography PowerPoint templates available on the market, Potraits is an excellent contender for your cash. It consists of 30 creative, and unique slide designs that can be fully customized to your specific requirements.

Focalism – Photography PowerPoint Template

Focalism is a modern, and stylish photography PowerPoint template that will surely make a solid impression on your clients. With 36 customizable slides, free fonts, a drag and drop picture placeholder, and a 16:9 widescreen ratio, Focalism is one of the best PowerPoint photography templates on our list.

Flopy – PowerPoint Photography Template

Scouring the internet for a nice photography composition PowerPoint template? Check out Flopy. It’s a clean, and eye-catching magazine style presentaion template featuring 34+ unique slides, fully personalizable to your needs. Don’t hesitate to take this amazing PowerPoint photography template for a spin.

One – Photography Composition PowerPoint Template

One is a simple, and modern photography presentation template that allows you to showcase your portfolio in the best way possible. It provides you with 20 slides in each of the 6 templates, 3 color themes, and a seamless customizability. Free PowerPoint photography templates are usually not so impressive.

Modern Photography PPT Template

The above-featured product is a great choice for anyone looking for an elegant photo presentation template. It will take only a couple of minutes for you to personalize this template. Just download it, fill it in with text, and photos, and voila; you’re all ready to wow your clients.

Drone X – Aerial Photography PowerPoint Template

Wanting a professional, and ultra-modern template for your upcoming aerial photography and videography presentation? Look no further than Drone X. Featuring 44+ slide designs to customize, this Photography ppt template is designed with attention to detail, and a strong focus on typography and usability.

The Twitter Lookbook – Photography PPT Template

Whether you’re looking to create a fashion lookbook, or photography portfolio to impress your clients in the upcoming presentation, this template will come in super handy. It’s a multipurpose photo PowerPoint template that will help you design a winning presentation.

Abram – Photography PowerPoint Template

Abram is another PowerPoint template for photography that we think is a perfect choice for both beginners, and professional photographers. It will instantly draw your audience’s attention, and keep it there. Take this awesome photography PowerPoint template for a spin.

Picxellence – PowerPoint Photography Template

The best photography PowerPoint templates exude style and elegance, and that’s exactly what Picxellence stands for. It’s a classy, modern PowerPoint template for photographers wanting to deliver a stand-out presentation without having to prepare the design elements from scratch.

Fashioned – Photography PPT Template

Our next template is specially designed keeping in mind the needs of fashion photographers. This template PPT photography presentation comes with icons and infographics. Visually illustrate or emphasize what you’re trying to say.

Cygni – Photography PowerPoint Template

Cygni is a modern photography presentation for PPT with a beautiful minimalist design. This photography PowerPoint template has over 34 distinctive slides that you can add your images to. Cygni is fully editable. Customize your presentation on photography to suit the occasion.

Portfolio – Photography PowerPoint Template

Portfolio photography PowerPoint is a multipurpose photographer presentation with a modern design. This template comes with 36 slides. Edit each photography PPT slide to fit your presentation needs.

Akhasia – Photography PowerPoint Template

Akhasia is one of the PowerPoint templates for photography that delights with color. This photography PPT template comes with 50 unique slides and 100 total. That lets you to put as much content as you need into your PowerPoint photo slideshow template. There are two pre-made color themes to choose from.

Lembert – Photography PowerPoint Template

The modern Lembert photography presentation template is designed with your portfolio in mind. It comes with 23 unique slides and a dark mode color theme. The photo presentation template also comes with vector icons. Adding your images to this photography PPT is also easy thanks to placeholders.

Elegant Photography PowerPoint Template

This is a pared-back canvas for your photography PowerPoint presentation ideas. The white and gold color scheme is minimal and draws attention to your images. This photography PowerPoint presentation’s typography helps complete the look.

Haben – Photography PowerPoint Template

This fully editable PowerPoint template for photography has 40 unique slides. Each one’s got a unique layout to showcase your photos. The photography PowerPoint template is easy to edit thanks to image placeholders. Just drag and drop to make a photography PPT. Use Ultra as a starting point for your design.

Yebon – Photography PowerPoint Template

Yebon is a clean and minimalist photography PowerPoint template. It comes with more than 40 slides for your presentation on photography. The photo presentation template is full HD. It features bold typography with a modern design sense. You’ll also get various vector elements and interesting picture overlays.

Creative Photography PowerPoint Template

This is a contemporary photography presentation template. It comes with 39 unique slides that are perfect for a presentation on photography. This photography PowerPoint includes vector icons that complement your portfolio pieces. It has image placeholders, allowing you to create your photography PPT with ease.

Free Photography PowerPoint Templates

Presicious – free photography powerpoint template.

We are so excited to share with you Presicious, a creative multipurpose template design that can be easily edited via Microsoft PowerPoint. From the titles and text boxes to the images and graphics, everything is already set in a convenient and stylish manner that still carries a minimalistic touch, so your only mission is to customize it according to the specific needs of your branding project.

Modela – Free Photography PowerPoint Template

Modela is an elegant and creative multi-purpose presentation template that will help you create effective presentation easily. Every slide is unique and not just repetitive layout. You can create powerful, gorgeous and professional deck with a striking design in just a few minutes instead of hours.

Free Photography PowerPoint Template

This is a pastel and minimalist multipurpose template that will meet the latest design trends, and is very easily adapted by any user without prior knowledge in PowerPoint. Each slide is organized and easily adjusted to individual goals.

Quebec – Free Photography PowerPoint Template

Here’s a modern PowerPoint photo slideshow template for photographers. It comes in full HD resolution. This makes it a perfect choice for showcasing a portfolio of your work. You’ll get a total of 25 unique slides based on master slides in this photographer presentation.

What's the difference between photo paper and presentation paper?

Paper vendors seem to use the terms "photo paper" and "presentation paper" like they are terribly important but at the same time just meaningless hand-waving sales bafflegab.

Do those terms actually mean anything? Is there any real difference?

It's hard to say for any particular vendor.

I would say that photo paper is paper that has a special ink receptive coating.

While presentation paper I think of as a heavier weight paper with good brightness, maybe less acid.  A 24 lb or 32 lb paper versus 20 lb or 22 lb.

I hope that helps for starters.

It's hard to say for any particular vendor. I would say that photo paper is paper that has a special ink receptive coating. While presentation paper I think of as a heavier weight paper with good brightness, maybe less acid. A 24 lb or 32 lb paper versus 20 lb or 22 lb. I hope that helps for starters.

I basically agree. To add what little I can, inkjet photo paper and inkjet presentation paper have a special coating to receive and hold sprayed liquid ink, which papers intended for laser printers don't have. Also "presentation" paper often means a matte surface, but most photo paper (other than high end 'art' photo paper) has a non-matte surface (glossy, semigloss, satin, pearl, luster, or similar).

It is about as helpful as "premium." Marketers' favorite meaningless word. Likewise, "fine art" paper has no definition, but just an implication.

You really need to go by the finish (gloss, satin, matte, textured), the thickness/weight and (especially) the price. You can be sure the cheap stuff is not much better than thin copier paper, despite the glorious description the marketing department provides.

You need to check the detailed description and specifications of the paper.  If it is intended for inkjet printing, it should say so.  If it is not intended for inkjet printing then it will probably give very poor results in inkjet printers.  The top quality papers for printing photos are generally labelled "photo inkjet paper" or similar.

Tom Axford wrote: You need to check the detailed description and specifications of the paper. If it is intended for inkjet printing, it should say so. If it is not intended for inkjet printing then it will probably give very poor results in inkjet printers. The top quality papers for printing photos are generally labelled "photo inkjet paper" or similar.

Some poor quality papers are also labeled as ”inkjet paper.” There is no standard that defines an inkjet paper. Well, actually there is a voluntary standard called ColorLok, but it is such a low standard that only the worst inkjet papers are branded with the ColorLok logo.

Actually my own limited experience (so far) doesn't seem to support these some of these comments.

For one example:  Low cost heavy (~200gsm, 60+ lb) matte photo paper doesn't seem obviously worse that the expensive stuff, in my explorations so far.

For another: I  have a pack of heavy glossy 8 1/2 x 11 Staples "premium" photo paper I purchased a couple of years ago for my HP colour laser.  The package states prominently that it is for LASER printers.  I said what the hell and decided to try it on my Epson 1400 inkjet.  It's great!  I can hardly tell the difference between it and my Epson ultra premium glossy paper 5x7 test pack.

I definitely to see a significant difference in the "snap" of matte vs glossy, and it looks like I'll have to spring for some 13x19 satin, pearl or lustre paper.  But it definitely won't be from Epson.  Premium brands command premium prices partly due to name recognition.  I can't afford that.  But I will try small packs of 5x7 for calibration/sanity check reference.

It's interesting, though: I've used a lot of 8 1/2 x 11 regular laser printer business paper over the years for B&W laser printing, bought in bulk cases.   Those always list the weight and brightness for comparison.  Why is it that photo/presentation paper never seem to list "brightness"?

It's just irritating when I want Photo paper and all I can find is Presentation paper.  Does that means it's not as good for photography?  Erk.

I see you are in Canada; I highly recommend redrivercatalog.com for paper that is pretty high quality (not the "best" though) at a reasonable price (not "cheap" though). It is also clear about the paper categories.

"Presentation paper" is usually intended for office environments where one wants to print a high quality report for "presentation," and is therefore usually matte, but is also often very good for matte photo prints.

Photo papers also may have one or more of:

- Brighteners

- UV inhibitors

and some have specific color response curves, special surface finishes and other attributes.

I've also experienced very different drying times for "similar" papers, and print appearance can change significantly in the first 24 hours after printing, depending on the paper. I've used some papers that don't exhibit color shift after 1 hour, while others have taken overnight. I always have to wait until the medium is thoroughly dry before critically judging the print quality.

Abbott Schindler wrote: Photo papers also may have one or more of: - Brighteners - UV inhibitors and some have specific color response curves, special surface finishes and other attributes. I've also experienced very different drying times for "similar" papers, and print appearance can change significantly in the first 24 hours after printing, depending on the paper. I've used some papers that don't exhibit color shift after 1 hour, while others have taken overnight. I always have to wait until the medium is thoroughly dry before critically judging the print quality.

Yes, there are differences in coatings on different papers, both in the number of layers and in the purpose of each layer.  Unfortunately, the paper manufacturers are very coy about publishing this information.

wilberforce_1 wrote: I see you are in Canada; I highly recommend redrivercatalog.com for paper that is pretty high quality (not the "best" though) at a reasonable price (not "cheap" though). It is also clear about the paper categories. "Presentation paper" is usually intended for office environments where one wants to print a high quality report for "presentation," and is therefore usually matte, but is also often very good for matte photo prints.

I am also in Canada and very impressed by Redriver papers. Their website provides a wealth of information in honest, and plain language about their products.

In my opinion, you can get better, you can get cheaper, but you can't get better value for money.

Plus, they ship very efficiently into Canada. I recently ordered midday Friday Eastern time, and FedEx were ringing my doorbell in Ottawa with the delivery Tuesday 10am.

Yes. Quality company all the way.  And the packing is superb.

Photo papers also may have one or more of: - Brighteners

AFAIK, all types of paper may have brighteners. Most photo papers have them, but some, especially 'art' papers with cotton and/or alpha cellulose bases, do not. Pretty much all regular 'copier'-type papers have them. And, just as an example, most laundry detergents have them.

Agreed. I have not attempted to measure this 'dry-down', or even study it carefully, but my sense is that  with some papers , readily-visible changes can occur at least over multiple hours after printing. For this reason, when making an ICC profile, I never measure a printed profiling target until at least 24 hours, and preferably 48 hours, after printing it.

The paper I've used that seems to show this the most is Red River Pecos River Gloss, which seems to be unique among papers available in the U.S. as the only truly glossy paper, in the current usual sense, that is not a resin-coated (RC) type, instead being 'cast coated' on an alpha cellulose base.

I'm also an enthusiastic Red River paper customer, and I think we share similar views, but to pick a few nits:

* In some paper types, IMO you can not get better than Red River. It's often said that Red River Palo Duro Softgloss Rag--one of my favorites--is very similar to Canson Platine, and also Epson Platine. In my experience, the three look very similar, but I've experienced surface / apparent quality-control problems with the Canson, but never with the Red River; and the Red River is every bit as good as the Epson (in my limited use of Epson Platine).

* In some paper types, Red River offers what no other company does. Among papers I like and use, Red River Pecos River Gloss seems to be unique, being a true glossy paper that is not a resin-coated type, instead being 'cast-coated' onto an alpha celluose base.

* Although Red River often offers good values, it's not necessarily the cheapest compared with otherwise-similar papers from other reputable vendors. Red River 60 lb. Polar Matte is a nice mid-price matte paper with OBAs; but Canon PM-101 Photo Paper Pro Premium Matte is as good or better, and from B&H often it's less expensive than the Red River.

NAwlins Contrarian wrote: I see you are in Canada; I highly recommend redrivercatalog.com for paper that is pretty high quality (not the "best" though) at a reasonable price (not "cheap" though). It is also clear about the paper categories.

Hi Nawlins,

I read most of your posts for good, informative comment on ink jet printing. Keep up the good work.

I have just discovered RR Pecos River Gloss, and am awaiting arrival of my first shipment on Monday. With a background in commercial offset printing, I understand the specification 'Cast Coated", but attributed the RR usage to the all too common marketing hyperbole we encounter in the creative arts. Boy, was I wrong - this is definitely a different category from the usual RC inkjet surfaces.

Roy Sletcher wrote: ... marketing hyperbole we encounter in the creative arts. Boy, was I wrong - this is definitely a different category from the usual RC inkjet surfaces.

(Sorry, couldn't resist.)

I love being wrong, don't you?  You learn so much more that way!

wallewek wrote: Roy Sletcher wrote: ...marketing hyperbole we encounter in the creative arts. Boy, was I wrong - this is definitely a different category from the usual RC inkjet surfaces.

I love being wrong, don't you? You learn so much more that way!

You are so 100% correct on that point. In fact, I think being wrong is almost my default position. Far more productive to accept it and move on, rather than trying to defend the indefensible.

Yea, There is a difference. I had the same doubt when i heard these terms. Photo paper is used for high-quality printing of photographs It enhances color vibrancy, sharpness, etc. The latter is used for professional presentations, reports, charts, and graphics.

Thanks. Sounds like I may want to try find an economical source of both to compare. I've come to appreciate how helpful it is to print small format samples as trials -- 5x7 or half 8.5x11 -- and finding out.

Unfortunately I've found it quite difficult to find any such papers to compare.  Suggestions would be very much appreciated.

Interestingly, I see my Epson 1400 inkjet has profiles for several matte "presentation" papers, no matte "photo" papers. I can't decide if that's because they don't make a matte photo, or don't distinguish between the two.

Hmm hmm hmm, what to do, what to do...

I guess I give up.

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• Deliver your client's Photo Prints or Custom USB Drives inside a totally personalized Presentation Box!
• Customize a 5x7" or 8x10" box lid with your logo or with your client's favorite images.
• Up to 100 Lustre, Pearl, or Glossy Photo Prints can fit inside each 1" deep Box.
• Choose a color for the bottom of your Presentation Box: black, white, or kraft.
• Ribbon color options include black and white.
• Box filler options include black or white tissue paper and shredded kraft paper.
• If you need more than one Presentation Box, all Photo Prints, USBs, and other products will be packaged separately.

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Columbia University in the City of New York

Miriam and ira d. wallach art gallery.

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Moscow City, Spectacle, Capital of Photography

Nadia Michoustina Wallach Art Gallery, 2003 8 x 10", 88 pp., 46 b&w illus. ISBN 1-884919-13-8, Paper, $25

The history of photography, more than of the city, is traced through 34 monochrome works by photographers who lived and worked in Moscow from the 1920s to the present. These photographs are from the collection of the Cultural Center Dom, Moscow, and were exhibited at Columbia University April through June 2003. An essay, interview, and biographies are included.

NINA KOUPRIANOVA

Graphics and geopolitics in moscow, russia.

There comes the time in every lady's life when she must put up a serious(ly boring) bio. Nina Kouprianova...errr...Why am I talking in the third person? I spend my time between graphics and photography ( ninakouprianova.com ), on the one hand, and independent scholarship and translation (Russia), on the other.

ACADEMIC (selected):

PhD Dissertation (History, University of Toronto): "Revolution, Tradition, and Modernity: Russian Consumer Advertising in the Era of NEP" (2012)

Publications

"Modernity and Natalism in Russia: Historic Perspectives" in the European Journal of Government and Economics (2013): http://www.ejge.org/index.php/ejge/article/view/31

Conferences

“From Heroic Mothers to Maternal Capital: A Brief Overview of Russia’s Natalism,” video presentation and conference, “The Future of the EU 2: Demographics, Education, and Sustainability," University of A Coruña, Spain, (2012): http://www.economicas.udc.es/varela/?q=node/300

“The Birth of a Rock Subculture in the Soviet Union,” conference paper, The Association for Slavic, East European, and Eurasian Studies convention, Philadelphia, U.S. (2008)

TRANSLATION:

Alexander Dugin, Martin Heidegger: the Philosophy of Another Beginning (2014)

Alexander Dugin, The Fourth Political Theory (2012), selected chapters

Contemporary Russian thought at my personal blog: https://ninabyzantina.com/

History of Espionage: https://espionagehistoryarchive.com/author/ninabyzantina/

Historic and contemporary Russia at the Soul of the East: http://souloftheeast.org/author/ninabyzantina/

MUSIC JOURNALISM (JAPAN): http://metropolis.co.jp/author/?auth=Nina%20Kouprianova

• Graphics, translation, independent scholarship.
• PhD (History): modern Russia, culture, U.S. foreign policy
• MA (History of Art): modern, medieval
• BFA (Hon): graphic design, photography, medieval studies