Photo Paper

Warrior

New member

Newbie here:
Is there a chart that can be used for printing?
Paper>scene>etc. which paper to choose?:confused:
scenery
portrait
sports
etc.
 

fotojack

Senior Member
Hi Newbie. :) I'm going to assume you Googled the term "printing paper chart", right? I'm just guessing, of course. I don't exactly understand your question, though. Could you be a little more explicit?
 

Browncoat

Senior Member
Photo paper is photo paper. I don't know that it make a difference what kind of paper you should use based on the photo genre. There is a large variety of paper out there of differing sizes and thicknesses, gloss/matte/etc. I don't believe there is a set of guidelines that says something like: if you're printing action sports, you should use Brand X semi-gloss or Brand Y matte for landscapes.
 

LensWork

Senior Member
The type of paper is not so much dependent on the subject matter, but more so on the intended use/display of the print. If the print will be framed behind glass, consideration must be given to the fact that a high-gloss print surface may cause reflections that will make the image difficult to see. High-gloss paper surfaces do however generally make the image appear "sharper" and more "vibrant", perhaps a good choice for colorful landscapes, architectural, product, etc. photography. Prints that will be handled and passed-around generally benefit from a luster surface as luster will not show fingerprints like a high-gloss paper will. Many portrait/wedding photographers also use luster surface paper because the paper will make the image appear a little "softer" (thereby lessening skin imperfections) and also because the luster surface does not scan well lessening the chance that a client will just scan the proof print and make their own prints rather than ordering prints from the photographer. Matte finish is often a good choice for B&W prints as because of the lack of a "sheen" that glossy or luster papers offer, blacks will appear darker & richer.
 
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fotojack

Senior Member
which paper to use for portraits
" " " " " sports
" " " " " scenery
Etc.

Ah, OK, now I gotcha. I use Kodak matte finish myself. I like the effect it gives to the finished print. Glossy always has a shine to it that I don't like. Matte (or lustre) finish gives the photo a softer look. Easier to mount behind glass, too, as it doesn't reflect like a glossy paper would. I guess it's all a personal choice when it comes down to it.
 

Joseph Bautsch

New member
I use three types of paper, glossy, semigloss, or mat. I also use 100% cotton cloth. I use the glossy for mat mounted and judged competition. In those the judge almost always looks for a very sharp print with colors that pop. Semigloss for shots that will be framed under glass. Mat for portraits and when a softer look is desired. The ladies like the soft look. I also print on cotton cloth for quilters who want to incorporate a photo of family and friends or sometimes even scenic views in their quilts.
 
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