In past posts, we have discussed paper weight and Brightness, now lets look at the 3rd characteristic, Finish.

Finish Inkjet photo paper comes in various finishes. Which finish produces the most satisfying results is a matter of personal taste, but always make sure to set the printer driver to match the paper finish you've selected.

Gloss Finish.

Photo paper with a gloss finish has a high shine with the look and feel of traditional glossy photo lab paper. The finish may be described as high gloss, gloss, soft gloss, or semi-gloss, each reflecting the amount of shine. Satin is a less shiny coated finish.

If you want the best possible results in terms of color richness, clarity and sheen then glossy inkjet photo paper is the way to go. This type of paper has several layers within each sheet. There are top layers to help with ink absorption, and intermediate layers to store the ink and prevent bleeding. The coating keeps the paper from readily absorbing the ink and therefore may dry more slowly, so look for a quick-dry gloss finish.

Matte Finish.

Matte photo paper has a smooth, almost velvety, finish. Any image printed onto a matte photo paper will have a richness of color and overall softness but it won't resemble a lab processed photograph. Matte photo paper is less shiny and has less of a glare than glossy paper. It is often used to produce superior text results.

Images printed on photo matte papers appear soft and non-reflective, not shiny. Matte finish photo papers are thicker and are specially formulated for photos. They are often used when prints are displayed under glass. Many matte finish papers are printable on both sides.

For a list of recommended papers for the RISO HC5500 Printer click here.