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At Barkley's Printroom, we proudly offer Fine Art Giclee Grade Photo Printing with a unique selection of archival, photographic, and specialty papers not found elsewhere in our region.
Understanding the basics of photo paper!
Photo paper begins with a meticulously designed base made from alpha cellulose or cotton rag fibres, selected for their durability and longevity. The real transformation occurs during the coating process, where multiple specialised layers are applied to create an ideal printing surface.
A base coating of barium sulphate (known as baryta in the industry) enhances image brightness and prevents the emulsion from penetrating the paper fibres. This is followed by the photographic emulsion, which can either be traditional silver halide crystals for darkroom papers or modern polymer coatings intended for inkjet printers.
The weight of the paper is more significant than you might realise. Professional-grade papers usually range from 250 to 315 grams per square meter (gsm), providing a substantial feel that conveys quality to anyone handling your prints.
Thickness is measured in mils (thousands of an inch) and influences both the smoothness of printing and the premium feel of the paper.
The texture of various types of photo paper varies from ultra-smooth glossy finishes to heavily textured canvas-like surfaces, impacting both the appearance and tactile experience of your prints. Lastly, don't forget about base tone – the subtle underlying colour of the paper. Warm tones have a hint of yellow, neutral tones appear pure white, and cool tones have a slight blue tint. This seemingly minor aspect can significantly influence the colour representation in your final prints.
*The Key Differences between photo and plain paper* - The distinction between copy paper, printer paper, and photo paper is akin to comparing a sponge to a finely tuned instrument.
Regular paper absorbs ink erratically, leading to colour bleeding and blurred edges. In contrast, photo paper features specialised clay and polyethylene layers that precisely regulate ink absorption.
These coatings create fast-drying surfaces that minimise smudging and ensure exceptional colour accuracy.
The polyethylene layers also resist curling, keeping your prints flat instead of warping as they dry. Additionally, photo papers incorporate optical brightening agents (OBAs) that enhance the brightness of whites and vibrancy of colours.
The smooth surface of photo paper allows for significantly higher print resolutions without the ink bleeding that could compromise images on standard paper.
The foundations of Quality Resin-coated (RC) and fibre-based (FB) papers embody two distinct philosophies in photo paper design.
RC papers encapsulate the emulsion between layers of polyethylene, forming a waterproof shield that allows for rapid processing. These papers can be developed, fixed, washed, and dried in just 20-30 minutes without curling. In contrast, fibre-based papers utilise a traditional method where the emulsion is applied directly to the fibre base.
Although they require longer processing times, they provide exceptional archival quality and deeper blacks.
When properly processed, FB prints can last over 50 years without significant fading. RC papers are prevalent in the consumer market due to their convenience and dimensional stability, while FB papers are regarded as the gold standard for gallery exhibitions, fine art photography, and archival uses where longevity is crucial.
Common Questions About Photopaper Types: Selecting the right type of photopaper can be daunting, particularly for significant and meaningful projects.
Addressing these frequently asked questions can help you make informed choices, preventing costly missteps and ensuring you achieve your desired results.
One of the most common mistakes is having mismatched expectations, such as opting for glossy paper for gallery presentations (which can lead to glare issues) or using lightweight paper for professional displays. Conducting and printing test samples before purchasing in bulk can save you both money and frustration.
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