Just as you can breathe life into an image through careful exposure or thoughtful editing, the choice of paper can significantly influence the character of your photograph. There’s an impressive selection of paper types, available in both sheets and rolls, that can transform your work from a glossy finish to a textured watercolour look.
The Importance Of The Right Paper
Each type of paper brings its own set of associations, making it crucial to choose one that aligns with your artistic intent. For example, lustre, satin, matt, textured and semi-gloss papers are excellent choices when you want the medium to complement rather than compete with the image.
These surfaces provide a rich range of tones and enough gloss to achieve deep blacks while keeping reflections to a minimum. Conversely, matte or smooth surfaces can enhance artistic images without adding unwanted texture. Moreover, baryta-based papers, reminiscent of classic darkroom prints, offer rich blacks and a subtle gloss that enhances the image without overwhelming it.
The choice of surface texture is ultimately subjective and should reflect your style and the nature of your work. To explore the myriad options, consider trying out a sample pack to discover the ideal paper for your photography.
Specialised Paper
A key feature to keep in mind when printing is the choice of paper, particularly opting for acid-free or archival types. These specialised papers are crafted from materials designed to resist fading over extended periods, especially when paired with archival inks.
By using both archival paper and ink, you can create prints that stand the test of time, minimising fading and other issues that might arise during display or storage.
Printing photographs stands as one of the oldest methods in photography, serving as the original way for people to experience images captured by a camera. Despite the rise of digital galleries and online image sharing, the art of printing remains a vibrant way to present your work.
With the right techniques and a meticulous approach, a photographic print can set you apart from the crowd, offering a tangible and valuable experience.