The type and texture of the paper you use has direct relation to how well prints look. If you treasure photos, use photo paper and ink that help ensure prints last long and are light and water resistant. Some premium papers resist fading for 25, 50 or more years and have the look and feel of traditional photographs.
Inkjet paper characterisitcs
Paper weight
Weight refers to the thickness of paper. 20 and 24 lb. bond is the most common thickness of paper used by consumers. Paper used to print photos is usually thicker, with the average about 62 lbs.
Paper brightness
Inkjet papers have levels of brightness (whiteness). Brightness is rated on a scale of 1 to 100 with 100 being the whitest. Brightness has a direct bearing on how photos appear when printed. Brighter and whiter means better.
Don't be fooled by the name a manufacturer gives the brightness. When buying paper for printing photos, check its number rating. For top quality prints, get photo paper with a brightness rating of around 95 and above.
Finish
Inkjet photo paper comes in three finishes. Which finish produces the most satisfying results is a matter of personal taste.
* Glossy - high shine with the look and feel of traditional glossy photo lab paper.
* Semi-gloss - satin luster and a slight bumpy surface. Less shine than glossy.
* Matte - dull surface with no glare or sheen. Often used when prints are diplayed under glass.
Make sure to set the printer driver to match the paper type.
Inkjet photo paper
Photo paper comes packaged and precut in the most popular sizes, and can be purchased online and in office supply stores.
