Choosing the right photo paper is one of those decisions that can truly change how a developed photo looks and feels. Even the best framed and edited photograph can look average if it ends up on paper that does not do justice to its character. It is worth taking a moment to understand the differences between various types of paper and which one will work best for specific photos.
Glossy, matte, or satin paper
Glossy paper is the classic choice that most people reach for when ordering photo prints. It has intense, saturated colours and strong contrast, making photos look very vibrant. It works great for holiday photographs, portraits, and photos from celebrations. The only downside is that fingerprints show easily on the shiny surface. Matte paper gives a completely different effect - colours are more subdued and the print itself has a delicate, velvety texture. It is a good choice if the photo will end up in a frame, because it does not reflect light and looks elegant from every angle. Satin paper combines the features of both types - it has a subtle sheen but is not as prone to glare as glossy paper.
Thickness and weight matter
Beyond the surface finish, the weight of the paper is also important. Thin paper can bend and wrinkle easily, which does not look good, especially in larger formats. Thicker paper gives a sense of solidity and durability. If you want your prints to look professional and last for years, it is worth choosing paper with a higher weight. In the premium prints range you will find exactly these kinds of options, combining high paper quality with excellent colour reproduction.
Finally, it is worth remembering that there is no single universal paper that will be perfect for everything. A photo of a sunset over the sea will benefit from glossy paper, while a black-and-white portrait will look more beautiful on matte paper. It is also a good idea to test a few types on smaller prints before ordering a large enlargement. A little experimentation will help you find what best suits your taste and the character of your photographs.
