Toronto Photography Meetup Group

Hey guys, I wanted to get your expert opinions with regards to printing.. Just bought an epson inkjet and wanted to try the "world of printing" and would like to ask if there is any "huge" difference in buying photo papers, be it brand or type ( i.e. premium glossy to regular gloss , EPSON photo paper as compared to a different brand like Staples or Fuji..etc)

Is there any calibration between printer and PC to be done for optimum results? I know this printer is not that "high end" for a commercial type results but I hope there is some ways to however produce nice prints...

again.. any input is highly appreciated...

thanks....

In short the quality of paper varies and it's best to use papers that your print driver supports (profiles) and use the OEM inks.

If the permanence of the print matters to you (find fading and colour shifts unacceptable) then grab a gallon of coffee and start reading here:

http://www.wilhelm-research.com/

I lucked out and got some 8.5 x 11 HP high gloss paper (50 sheets) from Henry's surplus store for $12 regular $80. I find it is much better in both my Canon and Epson printers over their own premium high gloss papers. I'm not sure why. I don't see much difference using low gloss papers but like the heavier bond art papers.

Important information missing before giving more ideas:

- printer model, brand
- type of printing you 'll do : of paintings, photography in general, digital art, experimental etc

@ken... you're right.. needed more coffee to read it...... and still reading on it.. thanks a lot for the link

@gerardo

I've got the Epson Artisan 835.. will do the usual printing from digital files....

the claria Hi-Def are cool inks especially if combined with any sort of gloss media. Premium Ultra-gloss yield great vibrancy and saturation.

Stick to Epson media for better results, third party manufacturers will hardly make custom profiles for an ink set aimed at the consumer level. I wouldn't expect too much from mat or rag papers, but mind you presentation, double and deluxe BW may yiled great results.

I'm int getting one of this printers too. if you don't mind sharing your experience, specially the fax feature and cd printing.

have fun !