The purpose of photo paper is to transfer graphic images to it by printing. It consists of many layers, each of which performs the functions assigned to it in the form of fixing the paint, protecting the pattern from the external environment, etc.
The main feature by which photo paper for a printer is divided into categories is the nature of its coverage. The most common surfaces are:
Glossy
Semi-glossy
Matte (Matte)
Silk
Satin (Satin)
Canvas
Glossy photo paper protects images from moisture, it reproduces the maximum color shades and gradations. In terms of photosensitivity, glossy images are on par with professional studio prints made with chemical reagents. The disadvantage of the polymer coating of Glossy paper is that if it is not handled carefully enough, it can clearly show traces of fingertips and other dirt. You can get the photo paper from any
online shop of stationery.
Glossy photo paper is used to create interior graphics, posters, posters, calendars and professional portfolios. For printing on it, it is recommended to use water-soluble ink, since pigment ink on their smooth surface has a blurry appearance.
Depending on the degree of whiteness and the thickness of the substrate, glossy photo paper is divided into classes - economy, premium or ultra.
Semi-glossy photo paper does not have a pronounced textured surface or a sharp transition from matte to gloss. Fingerprints on it are almost invisible. Its shine is muted and does not glare, so the paper is perfect for professional and amateur photo printing.
The affordable price and good technological data make the semi-gloss extremely attractive to the consumer, despite the somewhat limited color transitions.
Matte photo paper perfectly conveys contrasting images, especially for small details. Cracks that appear over time are much less noticeable on it than on a glossy one. Matte photographs do not tire your eyes; both water-soluble and pigmented inks are suitable for printing.
Matte photographic paper is primarily used for printing images that will be under glass or under laminate. These can be light box posters, large-format calendars, or premium quality promotional or
art related items.
Silk photo paper is quite versatile and its properties are roughly between glossy and matte. It also perfectly conveys a palette of subtle shades, making the picture juicy and bright. Pigment and water soluble inks can be used to print the image on silk photo paper. Scope of Silk paper - computer, interior and web graphics, business cards and leaflets.
Satin or satin photo papers provide flawless photo quality comparable to studio prints. It is extremely resistant to mechanical stress, practically does not warp or deform from excess ink. The microporous coating on satin photo paper provides color reproduction at about the same level as matte photo paper.
This type of photographic paper is indispensable for amateurs and mini-photo studios. It is used for the same purposes as other types of photographic paper.
The canvas photo paper consists of a cotton base and a special foamed polymer coating. The canvas is soft, durable and elastic, and has a white or cream color. Portraits and landscapes that look extremely realistic are especially successful on canvas.
Most canvases are focused on pigment paints, but with a certain degree of color correction, water-based paints can also be used.
For the purpose of subsequent protection, the canvas with the image is varnished. Before performing the procedure, you must make sure that the paint is completely dry, as well as the absolute compatibility of the varnish base with the ink and canvas coating.
Canvas with the printed image and framed in a baguette can become a memorable gift and a worthy interior decoration.