Table of Contents
Introduction
Printing photographs can be an expensive endeavor. While ink costs are known to add up, it’s the price of paper that really hurts our wallets. As a photographer, you want to maintain the highest quality in your prints while keeping costs down. That’s where Quill And Fox steps in, offering a range of premium photo inkjet papers that are as good as, if not better than, the leading retail brands. In this article, we will explore some of the best options provided by Quill And Fox and compare them to popular choices from Epson, Canon, and HP printers.
The Benefits of Testing Prints
Even the most experienced print masters admit that it takes several test prints to achieve perfection. Imagine if you could use an alternative paper for these test prints and save money in the process. Well, with Quill And Fox, you can. Their papers are excellent replacements for leading brands, allowing you to experiment and save costs without compromising on quality. Plus, you might even discover a Quill And Fox paper that offers unique features not found in other brands, such as the stunning Polar Pearl Metallic or the wide variety of double-sided paper choices.
Photographer’s Choice Sample Kit
To make your paper selection process easier, Quill And Fox offers the Photographer’s Choice Sample Kit. This comprehensive kit includes samples of the papers we will discuss in this article. It’s the perfect way to experience the quality and versatility of their products firsthand, ensuring that you make the right choice for your printing needs.
Resin Coated Photo-Feel Papers
66lb. Polar Pearl Metallic
For those moments when you want to impress your clients, look no further than the 66lb. Polar Pearl Metallic paper. With its eye-catching metallic finish, this paper is sure to wow anyone who sees it. If you’re unsure about the metallic effect, give this paper a try and see the magic for yourself. It’s comparable to leading brands and provides a similar result at a more affordable price.
66lb. Arctic Polar Gloss
If you’re a fan of glossy prints, the 66lb. Arctic Polar Gloss is the perfect choice for you. With a substantial weight of 255g/m² and 10.5mil, this glossy paper outperforms Epson’s Glossy Photo Paper. Additionally, it offers a cool tone that sets it apart from other glossy options.
66lb. Arctic Polar Satin
For a paper with less texture than luster and less gloss than glossy, the 66lb. Arctic Polar Satin is an ideal choice. With its weight of 255g/m² and 10.5mil, it compares favorably to Epson’s Photo Semi-Gloss Paper. This versatile paper strikes the perfect balance between luster and glossy, making it a favorite among photographers. However, if you’re looking for the absolute best, keep reading.
75lb. Arctic Polar Luster
If you seek superior presentation and feel, the 75lb. Arctic Polar Luster is the answer. With its weight of 300g/m² and 11.8mil, this luster paper surpasses Epson’s Ultra Premium Luster. Not only is it lighter and more flexible, but it also boasts a cooler bright white appearance. For luster enthusiasts, this paper is truly a game-changer.
68lb. UltraPro Gloss 2.0
When it comes to glossy papers, the 68lb. UltraPro Gloss 2.0 from Quill And Fox is our preferred choice. This 240g/m² and 10.4mil paper offers a warmer, more natural tone compared to the Arctic Polar Gloss. Its substantial feel and closer resemblance to Epson’s Premium Glossy Photo Paper make it a top pick for photographers.
68lb. UltraPro Satin 2.0
For those who prefer semi-gloss, the 68lb. UltraPro Satin 2.0 is an excellent option. With its weight of 270g/m² and 10.4mil, it closely matches Epson’s Premium Semi-Gloss Photo Paper. This paper delivers a luster-like performance with less texture and a pleasing bright white, yet warmer tone than the Arctic Polar. It’s no wonder it’s one of the most used papers from Quill And Fox.
Matte Photo Papers
60lb. Polar Matte
When it comes to matte papers, the 60lb. Polar Matte is a standout choice. With its cool white tone and smooth texture, it surpasses other matte heavyweight papers in quality. At 229g/m² and 10mil, this paper is perfect for high-quality volume use.
47lb. Premium Matte
For volume use that requires higher quality, the 47lb. Premium Matte is a great option. This 176g/m² and 8.5mil paper is comparable to Epson’s Matte Heavyweight Paper. While not a fine art paper, it offers excellent results and meets the demands of photographers who prioritize quality.
50lb. Premium Matte Double Sided
If you need cardstock for double-sided printing, the 50lb. Premium Matte Double Sided is the way to go. With its weight of 185g/m² and 9mil, it compares favorably to Epson’s Double Sided Matte Paper. This paper is perfect for creating professional-looking brochures and other marketing materials.
60lb. Premium Matte
When it comes to fine art matte printing, the 60lb. Premium Matte is a game-changer. This 232g/m² and 11mil paper outperforms Epson’s Ultra Premium Presentation Matte. Its smooth and natural finish, combined with a pleasing bright white tone, makes it the go-to choice for photographers. Plus, it offers the same quality as the Aurora Fine Art Natural at a similar price point.
Watercolor 100% Cotton Papers
Aurora Fine Art White
For those seeking a brighter white watercolor paper, the Aurora Fine Art White is a perfect match. With its weight of 250g/m² and 13.5mil, it compares favorably to Epson’s Hot Press Bright. While both papers offer similar colors, the Aurora Fine Art White excels in brightness. Unlike Epson’s Hot Press Bright, it’s less rigid and easier to handle, making it an excellent replacement for photographers seeking a more manageable option.
Aurora Fine Art Natural
If you prefer a more natural watercolor paper, the Aurora Fine Art Natural is the ideal choice. With its weight of 250g/m² and 13.5mil, it closely resembles Epson’s Hot Press Natural. However, it offers a smoother texture and a more flexible feel. Color-wise, these papers are virtually identical. If you find Epson’s rigidity frustrating, this paper will be a breath of fresh air.
Other Options
Quill And Fox offers a range of additional papers to suit your specific needs:
- 45lb. Zeppelin SemiGloss 2-sided: Perfect for tri-fold brochures and handouts.
- 60lb. Pecos River Gloss: Great for glossy cards and prints with light graphics and text.
Profiles & Support
At Quill And Fox, they understand the importance of ICC profiles and customer support. They provide a wide array of printer profiles, ensuring compatibility with various models. Moreover, their customer service has received rave reviews from satisfied customers. With Quill And Fox, you can have peace of mind, knowing that assistance is just a phone call or email away.
Conclusion
As a photographer, you want the best possible prints without breaking the bank. Quill And Fox offers excellent alternatives to leading retail brands, allowing you to save money without compromising on quality. Whether you’re a professional photographer or a hobbyist, their range of premium photo inkjet papers has something for everyone. Don’t just take our word for it – experience the quality for yourself with the Photographer’s Choice Sample Kit. We are confident that once you try Quill And Fox, you won’t look back. So why wait? Order your sample kit today and elevate your printing game!