These days we all have a high-powered camera in the palm of our hand, and digital snapshots have become a part of daily life. However, sometimes we take photos that are so special that they deserve to jump off of the screen. High-quality photo paper allows us to print out our favorite images for framing, scrapbooking, or even gifting to friends and loved ones. Photo paper is easy to use with the printers most of us have at home, and offers vibrant color and crisp detail so that our serious photography and cherished memories will never fade. We’ve put together a list of some of the best photo papers around so that you can stock up before your next big shoot or photo-worthy special occasion. We’ve chosen these photo paper options for their versatile uses and professional finish. Keep reading to find the perfect paper for all of your most special pictures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does using photo paper make a difference?
Dedicated photo paper elevates the quality of your prints, and transforms your photographs into objects worthy of display. While it is perfectly possible to print your images on regular printer paper, photo paper provides the glossy finish and high-quality color that we expect from professional prints. Photo paper also locks in color, and is heavy enough to resist wear and tear, so your artwork and keepsakes won’t fade or degrade over time.
Does photo paper expire?
Unlike paper used for film photography, photo paper for printers won’t expire over time. Instead, it is important to store your photo paper correctly so that it is in perfect condition when the time comes to add to your photo albums. Make sure that you keep your photo paper somewhere with low humidity so that moisture does not damage or warp the paper.
Buying Guide
Choosing which photo paper to go for is a big decision and can make or break the quality of the artwork or important family memories that we expect to have around for years to come. Keeping in mind a few factors can help us to invest in paper that will produce beautiful prints that we can be proud of. Consider how you will be printing your photos, how you will display your prints, and how frequently you print new images, and you should be able to narrow down your options to the perfect photo paper for you. Keep reading to find the photo paper for your next display.
The first thing you should think about is the capabilities of the printer that you have at home. Make sure that the dimensions of any paper that you invest in will fit your system, and run through your machine smoothly. It can also be smart to remind yourself what kind of ink you are using and double-check that it is a good match for the paper that you buy. Manufacturers treat certain papers with brightness enhancers or other chemicals that affect the white balance of your prints, so small variations in color may occur when printing with certain ink. It can be a good idea to test-run any new paper through your system before you commit to using it for a series of photos.
Knowing how you plan to share your photographs can also have a huge impact on which paper will be best for you. If you are an artist gearing up for an exhibition or are planning to frame and hang a special family portrait, going for low-gloss or matte finish paper can benefit your display. There is nothing worse than the reflection of lighting interpreting your self-expression or obscuring the faces of your loved ones. Some glossy papers are also treated with an anti-glare finish to help combat this problem. On the other hand, if you are more likely to be passing around your photos when guests come to visit, high-shine paper can offer that professional touch. Be sure to also be on the lookout for smudge-proof paper so that you won’t have to worry about sticky fingers and fingerprints when you are showing off those baby pictures at the next family gathering.
If you frequently update your albums with pictures from your latest trip, or you are an especially prolific photographer, buying photo paper in bulk can help you save time and resources. Many kinds of photo paper come in high-volume packages, so you will always have some on hand when you need to run off a few images. Buying in bulk will also mean that you have ample paper to run some tests, and fine-tune your prints. By keeping these factors in mind, you are sure to pick up the perfect paper to help you complete your photo collection.
CanonInk 1432C002 Photo Paper Plus Glossy II 5″ x 7″ 20 Sheets
Best Overall
Print From Home
This photo paper offers superior quality that yields vibrant colors and crisp focus.
Pros:
- This paper will not leave your prints feeling smeared or sticky
- This paper feels thick with a heavy quality to it
Cons:
- Only glossy finish
This paper has an attractive high gloss appearance that makes photos appear professional.
HP Everyday Photo Paper, Glossy, 4×6 in, 100 sheets (CR759A)
Runner Up
Smart App Compatible
This photo paper allows you to complete your projects to a professional degree with bright and high-quality prints.
Pros:
- This paper produces vibrant and colorful
- Will not smudge when removed from your printer
Cons:
- Prints may appear slightly darker than the image on your device
This paper is fully recyclable and allows you to keep the environment in mind when choosing materials for your project.
200 Sheets Double Sided Glossy Photo Paper 8.5×11 54lbs 9.5Mil 200Gsm Variety Bulk Pack Picture 8.5 x 11 Inches For Inkjet Printing Printer
Contender
Bulk Supply
This glossy paper is double-sided to allow for versatile printing options with your inkjet device.
Pros:
- Double-sided printing means this paper is great for greeting cards and other craft projects
- Heavy enough that ink will not bleed through
Cons:
- May not work with all printer settings
This paper is extremely fast drying allowing you to produce prints quickly.
Epson Premium Photo Paper GLOSSY (8×10 Inches, 20 Sheets) (S041465),White
Recommended
Brilliant White
This high-quality photo paper is resin coated for a professional finish that is specially formulated to look good in a frame.
Pros:
- This paper is well packaged and easy to preserve
- Runs smoothly through printers without snagging or jamming
Cons:
- Similar quality to non-premium version
This paper has a quick-dry surface that is also wear-resistant so your photos won’t degrade over time.
Photo Paper for Printer Picture Printer Paper Glossy White Photographic Paper Photo Quality Printer Paper Variety Pack (60 Sheets,4 x 6 Inch, 5 x 7 Inch, 8.5 x 11 Inch)
Also Consider
Variety of Sizes
This variety pack of photo paper provides you with paper that can be easily used for a variety of different projects.
Pros:
- Works well for printing phone photography
- Variety pack is good for those who take and give away photos frequently
Cons:
- Packaging may not be robust enough for long-term storage
This paper is waterproof so your photos will be durable and stand up to the test of time.
