New to Darkroom/Paper selection

[Jaime Marin]

Im taking a beginning photo class. Wasn't exactly instructed specific paper to use but I dont necessarily like ilford glossy that I got. Any recommendations on a great matt paper or low gloss?

 

[Jerevan]

If you are supposed to use fibre-based paper, Ilford Matt is a good option. If you are going for RC (resin-coated) papers, Ilford Satin might be better than the glossy variation.

 

[marco.taje]

I do not like the glossy finish on RC, as well. RC papers have to be pearl (Ilford terminology) for me. I think it's by far the best choice for general purposes.
I also liked Rollei 314 very much, but it tends to a rather annoying greenish tint when not toned, so it might not be very suitable..
A very good point in Ilford pearl is that it is virtually equal -exposure and contrast wise- to its glossy counterpart: if your buddies are using glossy, that might matter to you!


P.S.: the above is valid if we speak of RC papers.

 

[Jeff Kubach]

I would go with Ilford Pearl also.

Jeff

 

[hpulley]

Ilford MGIV Pearl is good in RC, full matt finish in Ilford MGIV fiber based is even better, looks so much like fine art material. Somehow a floppy RC print just never feels like art to me while a beautiful MGIV matt fiber print with no frame or glass always looks and feels like a masterpiece! You need to use more care in creating it, especially the washing and drying parts but there is nothing like fiber...

 

[markbarendt]

Im taking a beginning photo class. Wasn't exactly instructed specific paper to use but I dont necessarily like ilford glossy that I got. Any recommendations on a great matt paper or low gloss?

Given that it's a beginning class I'd say most any brand should be fine. Picking the surface you like and getting fresh paper stock are more important considerations than the brand at that stage.

Even with some experience now I prefer Adorama's store branded paper.

Until you get a good handle on the nuances of the printing process, the nuances in the paper won't mean much.

 

[MattKing]

I save my glossy paper for things that look good when they are, not surprisingly, glossy.

With Ilford RC, Pearl finish is my favourite, but Satin has its attractions as well.

The Oriental Seagull Pearl finish RC paper is also nice.

If you decide to try fibre-based paper, then glossy paper that is air dried has a very attractive finish - not quite glossy, but not overly matte either.

 

[Paul Howell]

To some degree depends on if you will be buying from a local shop or ordering on line. If you buying locally you may not have much of a selection. In my market we have Ilford and one store carries ProMaster VC, in both matt and glossy. For work prints I use Promaster VC. Not sure who really makes it, seems to be closely guarded secret, comes in 5X7 and 8X10 matt and glossy. For final prints I use Forma and Salvich which I order online from Freestyle. Forma is availalbe in both fiber and RC, VC and graded, Salvich offers only fiber graded glossy which I only on rare occassion gloss, other wise it is a semi matt. Salvich also sells a silk finish which can be nice for some prints.

Does your instuctor have a peferance for glossy or matt?

 

[Simon R Galley]

Dear Jaime,

Firstly good luck with your course, normally your photo instructor can give you a good steer, regardless of which paper you use pm me your home address and I will send you the MULTIGRADE Manual, and a few for your mates, which should at least help you save some paper...

Simon ILFORD Photo / HARMAN technology LImited :