Last Updated on November 3, 2022
The darkroom is an essential tool for the black and white photographer. In this article we will take a look at what paper to use for your photographic darkroom printing. We will also look at how to store your paper, how to load it into the developing tray, and how to print your negatives onto it using a contact printer.
By the end of this article you should have a good understanding of what paper to use for your photographic darkroom printing needs.
As digital technology continues to evolve, many photographers are returning to the darkroom to process their own film. Darkroom paper is a specialized type of paper that is used for printing photographs. It is important to choose the right type of paper for your project, as different papers have different properties that will affect the final image.
This guide will help you understand the different types of darkroom paper available, so that you can make the best choice for your project. We’ll cover topics such as surface finish, weight, and brightness. By the end of this guide, you’ll be able to choose the perfect paper for your next photographic project!
What is the Best Photographic Darkroom Paper
When it comes to darkroom paper, there are a few things that you need to take into account in order to choose the best possible option for your needs. The first is the surface type of the paper – glossy or matte. If you want your prints to have a high level of detail and clarity, then you will want to go with a glossy surface.
However, if you are looking for a more muted look, then matte paper may be a better option for you.
Another thing to consider is the weight of the paper. Heavier papers tend to be more durable and less likely to curl when exposed to wet processing chemicals.
If you are planning on doing a lot of darkroom printing, then it may be worth investing in some heavier-weight papers.
Finally, think about the size of the paper that you need. Darkroom papers come in both standard and large formats, so make sure to choose one that will fit your enlarger baseboard.
If you’re not sure what size you need, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and go with a larger sheet size – you can always trim it down later if necessary.
Now that you know all of this, it’s time to start shopping around for darkroom papers! Here are our top three picks:
1) Ilford Galerie Prestige Glossy Darkroom Paper – This paper has an excellent glossy finish that really makes images pop. It’s also available in both standard and large sizes, so you can find the perfect fit for your darkroom setup. And at just $0.50 per sheet, it’s very affordable as well!
2) Kodak Professional Endura Premier Matte Darkroom Paper – Another great option for those who prefer matte-finished prints. This Kodak paper offers excellent image quality and durability thanks to its heavyweight construction. It’s also available in both standard and large sizes (up to 13×19 inches).
Prices start at around $1 per sheet depending on where you buy it from.
3) Fuji Folio Glossy Darkroom Paper – A third excellent choice for those seeking a high-quality glossy finish on their prints. This Japanese import offers superb image quality along with good durability thanks to its medium-weight construction .
What are the Benefits of Using a Photographic Darkroom Paper
One of the benefits of using photographic darkroom paper is that it can help to create a more realistic image. This is because the paper has a black background, which can make the colors in the photo appear more vivid and pronounced. Additionally, darkroom paper can also help to reduce glare and reflections from light sources, making it easier to see the details in a photograph.
How Do I Choose the Right Photographic Darkroom Paper for My Project
When it comes to choosing the right photographic darkroom paper for your project, there are a few things you need to take into consideration. The first is the type of paper. There are two main types of darkroom papers: glossy and matte.
Glossy papers have a shiny finish and are best suited for images that are going to be printed with a lot of detail, such as black and white photographs. Matte papers have a more muted finish and are better suited for images that don’t require as much detail, such as portraits or landscapes.
The second thing you need to consider is the size of the paper.
Darkroom papers come in a variety of sizes, from small (4×6 inches) to large (11×14 inches). The size you choose will depend on the size of your project. If you’re just printing one or two photos, then a smaller size will suffice.
But if you’re printing an entire album worth of photos, then you’ll need to use a larger size.
And finally, you need to consider the price. Darkroom papers can range in price from very affordable to quite expensive.
Again, the price will depend on the size and type of paper you choose. If you’re working with a limited budget, then it’s important to find an affordable option that still meets your needs.
By keeping these three things in mind – type, size and price – you should be able to narrow down your choices and find the perfect darkroom paper for your project!
What are the Different Types of Photographic Darkroom Papers Available
When it comes to darkroom papers, there are a few different types that you can choose from. The most popular type of paper is RC paper, which stands for resin coated. This type of paper is very easy to work with and gives you great results.
Another option is fiber based paper, which is a bit more difficult to use but can give you some really beautiful prints. Lastly, there is archival quality paper, which will last a lot longer than the other two options but can be tricky to work with.
Where Can I Find More Information on Photographic Darkroom Papers
For those who are interested in learning more about photographic darkroom papers, here are a few resources that may be helpful:
The first stop for many people interested in learning about anything related to photography is likely to be the website of the major camera manufacturer Canon. On their website, they have a section dedicated to education and inspiration, which includes an article on darkroom paper types https://www.usa.canon.com/internet/portal/us/home/explore/photography-tips-and-techniques/getting-creative-in-the-darkroom/different-types-of-darkroom-paper.
Another great resource for general information on all things photography is DPReview. They have an extensive forum where users can ask questions and get answers from other knowledgeable photographers. There is also a searchable database of previously answered questions http://forums.dpreview.com/.
A quick search of “darkroom paper” turns up several useful results, including this thread which offers advice from experienced darkroom printers http://forums.dpreview.com/forums/readflat.asp?forum=1041&message=35147796&changemode=1&sortorder=&showdate=0 .
If you’re looking for more specific information about certain brands or products, most companies that sell darkroom paper will have detailed product descriptions and technical information available on their websites or in downloadable PDFs.
For example, Ilford Imaging UK offers detailed specs for all their darkroom papers https://www.ilfordphoto.com/-dbp_en-.aspx?categoryid=11337612&mode=list#fusionChartsWrapper_e7a3c9afb6 .
Photographic Papers – ILFORD Photo Darkroom Guides
Conclusion
In this blog post, the author gives a complete guide to photographic darkroom paper. They discuss the different types of paper available and their pros and cons. They also give tips on how to choose the right paper for your needs, as well as how to store and care for it.