Outdoor Photographer Magazine

Choosing Inkjet Papers
BUYER’S GUIDE

Choosing Inkjet Papers



Whiteness. The whiteness of a paper has a dramatic effect on the color balance of your print, as well as the neutrality of black-and-white prints. Compare two different papers of the same surface type, and you’ll notice a difference in the color of the paper. Although some papers are rated for whiteness, photographers often must depend on direct comparisons to decide which paper best suits their needs. If achieving a neutral cast to your color or monochrome printing is important to you, it’s best to choose as white a paper as possible.

Surface. The surface of the paper has a direct impact on how the ink reacts to the paper. Papers that are specifically intended for use with inkjet printers are designed to handle the native qualities of the inks, including their absorption characteristics. Matte surfaces absorb more ink than do glossy papers, and the final look of the image is impacted as a result. Because of its smooth, uniform surface, glossy paper provides strong colors and contrast.

Choosing Inkjet PapersArchival. The latest generation of inks offer decades of fade-resistance, but that duration is dependent on the paper used to print the photograph. Increasingly, more and more papers are sold that promise archival quality, but there’s no industry-accepted standard for measuring this. Although paper from the printer manufacturers likely will deliver the promised longevity when used with compatible inks, this may not be the case with some third-party papers. If fade-resistance is important, we suggest visiting Wilhelm Imaging Research (www.wilhelm-research.com), an in-dependent organization that tests inks and papers for lightfastness, and posts results on its Website.





 « Previous Page  |  1  |  2  |  3

MORE GEAR


Cameras
Reviews, roundups and articles on the new and best cameras from top manufacturers
First Look: Olympus E-3

Short Report: Canon EOS 40D

First Look: Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III

Digital Darkroom
Digital darkroom gear, from software to inkjet printers, and how to use them
HP Photosmart Pro B9180

Today's Technology in Inkjet Printing

State-Of-The-Art Labs

More
More great gear for outdoor photographers
Holiday Book Guide

Editor's Picks '07

Gadget Bag: HD Video Camcorders

Lenses
Reviews, roundups and articles on the new and best lenses from top manufacturers
Zeiss F-Mount Lenses

Short Report: Tamron AF18-250mm f/3.5-6.3 Di II LD Aspherical IF

Short Report: Tokina AT-X 107 DX AF 10-17mm f/3.5-4.5 Fisheye

Accessories
Camera and photography accessories that will help make your photography better
The Essentials

Gadget Bag: The Perfect Cover

Get The Most From Your Batteries

Buyer's Guide
A guide to help you choose the best solutions and equipment for your photography needs
Choosing A Digital SLR

Choosing An Interchangeable Lens

Choosing Inkjet Papers

 






Subscribe now and take advantage of our special internet offer: 1 year (11 issues) for just $17.97! You save 77%!

To receive Outdoor Photographer, just fill in the form and click Subscribe!

Name:
Address:
Address 2:
City:
State:
Zip Code:
E-Mail Address:
Canadian/Foreign residents, click here.


Check out our other photo sites:
pcphoto digital photo pro

Home | Current Issue | Archive | Sitemap | About Us | Contact Us | Submissions | Subscribe | Privacy Policy

Outdoor Photographer Magazine is published by Werner Publishing Corporation
12121 Wilshire Boulevard, 12th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90025
Copyright© 2008 Werner Publishing Corp.