The Ultimate Guide to Photo Printing: Best Papers, Online and Same-Day Pick-Up Lab Options
Whether you’re a professional photographer or just preserving cherished memories, choosing the right photo paper to mount on your Resilient Align foam mounting board can make all the difference. This guide explores the five best types of photo paper, the top online photo labs, and convenient places for same-day photo pick-up. Now get ready to ditch your picture frames and start mounting exquisite photos in moments!
5 Best Types of Photo Paper for Printing
- Glossy Photo Paper
Glossy paper produces vibrant, high-contrast images with a shiny finish that enhances colors and details. It’s great for family photos or portfolios but can be prone to fingerprints and glare.
- Matte Photo Paper
Matte paper offers a smooth, non-reflective finish, perfect for framing or handling without smudges. It provides rich color depth and is ideal for fine art prints or understated professional photos.
- Metallic Photo Paper
Metallic paper gives images a striking, iridescent sheen, making colors pop and adding a three-dimensional effect. This type is fantastic for landscapes, cityscapes, or anything requiring extra "wow."
- Luster Photo Paper
Luster paper strikes a balance between glossy and matte, with a slightly textured finish. It resists fingerprints and glare while maintaining vibrant color, making it a favorite among wedding photographers.
- Canvas Photo Paper
Canvas-textured paper mimics the look of a traditional canvas painting, providing a tactile and artistic effect. It’s ideal for portraits, gallery displays, or large-scale prints.
All of these options will provide you with a great mounting experience utilizing our pressure-activated adhesive and slide-able surface technology on Resilient Align.
5 Best Online Photo Labs for Quality Printing
Mpix is a go-to for both professionals and hobbyists, with quick turnaround times and high-quality prints on paper, canvas, and more. Their user-friendly interface makes ordering easy.
Bay Photo offers a wide range of products, from traditional prints to metal wall art. Their advanced color correction services and premium materials ensure outstanding prints every time.
Nations Photo Lab offers exceptional quality with a range of products, from prints to photo books. Known for vibrant colors and precise details, it’s a top choice for professional and personal printing.
Formerly AdoramaPix, Printique specializes in high-quality photo books and prints with professional finishes. Their service is ideal for albums, portfolios, and wall art.
For casual users, Shutterfly is a fantastic option. Alongside prints, they offer customizable gifts, photo books, and home décor, making it a great all-in-one platform.
5 Best Places for Same-Day Photo Pick-Up
CVS Photo provides same-day pick-up for a variety of products, including prints, calendars, and photo books. Their locations nationwide make them a convenient choice.
Walgreens offers same-day service on prints, cards, and gifts. Their competitive pricing and frequent promotions make it a popular option.
With an easy-to-use app, Walmart Photo Center allows you to order prints, posters, and even photo books for same-day pick-up at participating locations.
FedEx Office offers fast same-day printing for photo enlargements, posters, and canvas prints. Their high-quality results cater to professional and personal needs.
Staples provides photo printing for enlargements and marketing materials. Their services are ideal for both personal and business-related projects.
Tips for Choosing the Right Option
- Purpose: For professional-grade results, invest in high-quality photo paper and labs. For everyday prints or last-minute gifts, opt for same-day services.
- Convenience: Online labs provide superior quality and variety but require planning. Same-day services are perfect for quick turnaround times.
- Cost: Compare prices across options to find the best fit for your budget and project size.
No matter what your printing needs, this guide aims to ensure your photos will look stunning displayed on your Resilient Align board. Ready to restock? Click here to shop your favorite sizes!