There are a few different papers you can use for printing wall art, but the best option depends on the type of art you’re printing, and the look you’re going for. If you want your prints to be shiny and vibrant, then glossy photo paper is a great option. If you want a more matte finish, then opting for heavy cardstock paper is a better choice. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference, so experiment with different papers until you find the one that gives you the results you’re looking for.
Gloss and Semigloss
When choosing a paper finish for your prints, consider the type of photo. Black colors and intense shadows don’t normally look great with glossy finishes. However, glossy papers may be appropriate for colorful portraits taken in studios featuring professional makeup, vivid backgrounds, and intricate details. Furthermore, if the print is part of an exhibition, glossy paper is likely not a good option since it can create glare from both the glass and the print itself.
Matte
Matte paper is created using hot-pressed fiber and doesn’t have the glossy coating that leads to reflective light. Therefore, it offers darker blacks than glossy paper, which makes it suitable for black & white photos. Additionally, matte paper also comes in a variety of textures and can be ordered as thick or dimpled; this creates a painting-like effect with better contrast and finer detail. When an image requires more texture and prominent details, matte paper is a primary choice.
Canvas
Canvas is a great option for images you want to print big or frame. A quality canvas print will deliver a matte-like paper finish, keeping the contrast and color. The colors here are much more vibrant when viewed from a distance. Small amounts of the canvas texture from the material come through onto the print. This can add to the texture of the print. It can also reaffirm the concept behind the image. Canvas papers are made for inkjet printers. This paper type can weigh more than others, so you might have to change the paper handling of your printer.
Art
Art paper offers versatility in terms of its look and feel, providing both a matte design finish with some amount of texture. There are different levels of contrast and color; for instance, there are watercolor options that add a painterly effect, while others are characterized by strong beige or yellow hues. Furthermore, art paper can be purchased in several varieties such as glossy, baryta, luster and matte styles.