Fine Art Print Paper Options – Giclée Prints on Hahnemühle Papers
Fine Art Print Paper Options
Choosing the right paper is an important part of how a photograph is experienced. Texture, surface finish and tonal response all influence how an image feels on the wall. All prints in my Gallery are produced as archival Giclée prints using professional pigment inks, then printed onto carefully selected Hahnemühle fine art papers.
This page explains the three paper options available, so you can choose the one that best suits your space, subject matter and personal taste.
Print Type: Giclée
All prints are produced using the Giclée printing process, a museum‑grade method of inkjet printing that uses pigment‑based inks on archival fine art papers.
- Exceptionally high resolution and fine detail
- Smooth tonal transitions, ideal for both colour and black & white
- Acid‑free, archival materials
- Longevity measured in decades, often over 100 years under proper display conditions
Giclée printing is widely regarded as the industry standard for professional photographic and fine art prints.
Hahnemühle Bamboo
Hahnemühle Bamboo is a unique fine art paper made from 90% bamboo fibres, making it one of the most environmentally friendly papers available.
- 290gsm heavyweight paper
- Warm, natural white tone
- Soft matte surface with gentle texture
- Excellent depth in shadows and mid‑tones
This paper lends itself particularly well to moody landscapes, organic subjects and black & white work, where warmth and texture enhance the emotional quality of the image. It’s a great choice if sustainability is important to you.
Hahnemühle Photo Rag
Hahnemühle Photo Rag is a modern classic and one of the most popular fine art papers used by galleries and photographers worldwide.
- 308gsm, 100% cotton rag
- Smooth matte surface
- Neutral white base
- Outstanding detail and tonal accuracy
Photo Rag is incredibly versatile and works beautifully with landscape photography, architectural detail, and minimalist compositions. If you’re unsure which paper to choose, this is often the safest and most balanced option.
Hahnemühle Pearl
Hahnemühle Pearl offers a subtle lustre finish that sits between matte and glossy.
- Resin‑coated fine art paper
- Pearl / satin surface
- Bright whites with enhanced contrast
- Excellent sharpness and colour vibrancy
This paper is well suited to images where contrast, clarity and light play a strong role. It performs particularly well with detailed scenes, reflections, and images that benefit from a little extra visual punch without the shine of full gloss.
Which paper should I choose?
- Choose Bamboo for warmth, texture and sustainability
- Choose Photo Rag for a classic, gallery‑ready matte finish
- Choose Pearl for enhanced contrast and a subtle sheen
All papers are archival, professionally printed, and selected to complement fine art photography. Individual product pages will indicate which paper options are available for each image.
If you’re still unsure, feel free to get in touch and I’ll be happy to advise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all prints archival?
Yes. All prints are produced using archival Giclée printing with pigment-based inks on acid-free Hahnemühle papers, designed to last for decades when properly displayed.
Do matte papers lose detail compared to glossy papers?
No. Matte fine art papers like Photo Rag and Bamboo retain excellent detail and tonal depth. They offer a softer, more natural finish compared to glossy papers, which can appear more reflective.
Is Hahnemühle Bamboo suitable for colour prints?
Absolutely. While it is especially popular for black & white and moody work, Bamboo also performs beautifully with colour images, adding warmth and a natural feel.
What is the difference between Pearl and Gloss paper?
Pearl has a subtle satin sheen that enhances contrast and clarity without the high reflectivity of full gloss, making it easier to display under a wider range of lighting conditions.
Which paper is best for framing behind glass?
All three papers are suitable for framing. Pearl works well in brighter spaces, while Photo Rag and Bamboo are ideal if you prefer a softer, non-reflective look.
If you have any questions about paper choice, framing, or suitability for a particular image or space, please use my Contact form and I’ll be happy to help you choose the right option for your print.