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 p.1 #16 · Thought process for papers | |
This is a fundamentally interesting question and depending on a multitude of variables, the answer is, it depends. The first thing one has to ask is how/where will the media be displayed, whether glazing is involved, what message is to be conveyed, and to a lesser degree the image itself. In many circumstances, the distinctions between papers is less acute when viewed in isolation whereas the differences become apparent quickly when they are held side-by-side. Fortunately, it isn't a binary choice and which way you lean is based on personal preferences. If glazing is involved many distinctions between papers including contrast and texture disappear. Additionally, if one employs UV filtering glazing, then if there are any OBA's in the paper, they will not fluoresce and the paper will likely appear more yellow.
The general advantage of matte papers is they tend not to have as many internal reflections behind glazing so many people opt for it. Most of the time, matte papers have comparatively smaller gamuts and dmax than glossier papers, although my favorite, FA, OBA free paper Arches 88 rivals many glossy varieties as well. With certain colorful subjects, a glossier paper might be warranted especially if the photo is being passed around or isn't framed. The surfaces tend to be slightly more durable in those circumstances.
Then, the subject should come into consideration. For example, I've printed portraits on every kind of paper and depending on the subject and the preference, one can make them work. If one is intending a muted, more ethereal look, then a watercolor paper can produce an interesting effect. High fashion with bold colors and impact? I've printed on metallics with great results. Landscapes with lots of negative space and limited gamut ranges seem to fair better on matte or even textured papers, whereas boldly colored flowers/landscapes seem to pop better on glossier varieties.
So, again, there isn't one singular answer and while one can generally develop an inkling as to what will look better on a type of paper, there isn't a universal rule. My general workflow is to print initially a test image on an inexpensive semi-gloss paper to assess color fidelity, sharpness, shadows, composition, cropping, and other rendering elements. From there, I usually make a decision based on some of the factors mentioned, and then re-edit accordingly. Interestingly, I had a lovely image of a mother otter and her pup, floating in a specular sea. Initially, I thought it might look best on a more glossy paper, but the contrast/colors didn't seem to work. The color transitions in the seawater rendered better on matte. Once you start doing this for a while, you'll develop your own style, preferences, and workflow. BOL.
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