So... the old RC vs FB

[Mainecoonmaniac]

Compare a sheet of FB paper to RC and FB wins every time. Now frame them both and compare again. The quality differences diminish.

At that point the benefits of RC come into play. Is it still worth the extra effort and water for FB for you? If so, great, but the ease of use of RC is more attractive when you don't factor in the feel of the paper.

I don't mind the effort. But during drought years here in California, it's less environmentally responsible. I got an archival print washer, but I think I should use the used wash water to water my landscape. I've printed most FB and the habit is hard to break.

 

[xtolsniffer]

People make great prints on FB, on the other hand, people make great prints on RC. Personally, I really like the Ilford pearl finish on RC. Its cheaper, easier to work with and behind glass it looks great. FB 'feels' lovely, but I only handle prints when I have to. If you make good prints on RC, don't feel guilty or that you're missing out. I use RC 95% of the time. I sometimes print on FB to remind myself how much more effort it is and to just test to see if I'm missing a trick, then I go and buy another box of RC.