Paper thickness is one of the important factors that is often overlooked when making a photobook. A photobook is not just a collection of photos, but also a work of art that holds precious memories.
Paper thickness affects the appearance, durability, and viewing experience of the album.
In this article, we will discuss various aspects related to the thickness of photobook paper, including commonly used sizes and grammage, their impact on print results, and how to choose the right thickness according to the type of photobook you want to make.
Commonly Used Paper Sizes and Thicknesses
In the printing world, paper thickness is measured in grams per square meter (gsm). The higher the gsm number, the thicker and heavier the paper. Here are some common paper sizes and thicknesses used in making photobooks:
1. 150gsm paper
This paper is relatively light and is often used for photobooks with simple designs. Although not as strong as other types of paper, 150gsm paper is good enough for standard quality photo prints.
2. 200gsm paper
This is a more popular choice for photo books as it provides a balance between thickness and flexibility. 200gsm paper displays colors well and gives a premium feel without being too heavy.
3. 250gsm paper
With this thickness, the paper becomes stronger and more durable. Suitable for albums that want to last a long time, such as wedding albums or family memories.
4. 300gsm paper
This is the best choice for high-quality photo books. 300gsm paper produces very sharp and rich color prints, and feels very luxurious to the touch. Albums with this paper are usually used for professional portfolios or art collections.
Impact of Paper Thickness on Print Results and Durability
Paper thickness not only affects the physical appearance of the photobook but also affects the durability of the print. Thicker paper tends to be more resistant to physical damage such as tearing or folding.
In addition, the thickness of the paper also affects how the ink absorbs into the paper fibers. Here is a more detailed explanation of the impact:
1. Print Quality
Thick paper has the ability to absorb ink optimally, resulting in more vivid, sharp colors and clear image details.
This is especially important for high-resolution photos or photos with complex colors. On the other hand, thin paper tends to make the colors look less intense and the image detail becomes less optimal.
2. Durability
Paper with a high grammage is more resistant to physical damage such as tearing, folding, or creasing.
Additionally, thick paper is also more resistant to environmental influences such as humidity and extreme temperatures, making it an ideal choice for memory albums that you want to keep for a long time.
3. User Experience
The thickness of the paper provides a premium feel when touched and flipped. This enhances the user's visual and tactile experience when enjoying the photobook.
Thick paper also gives an exclusive and professional impression, especially for important event albums or art portfolios.
Choose paper thickness according to photobook type
The selection of paper thickness should be adjusted to the type of photobook you want to make. Here is a more detailed explanation based on the type of photobook:
1. Wedding Album
Wedding albums are a symbol of memories that must last a long time. It is recommended to use paper with a minimum thickness of 250gsm, this paper provides an elegant appearance, sharp print results, and high resistance to damage such as tearing or fading.
Since wedding albums are often viewed repeatedly, premium paper quality is essential to maintain the beauty of those special moment photos.
2. Travel Album
Travel albums usually contain lots of photos and visual stories from various places. For this type of album, 200gsm to 250gsm paper thickness is an ideal choice.
200gsm paper is light and flexible enough to accommodate many pages, while 250gsm gives a more sturdy and premium feel.
The choice of thickness also depends on the budget and the number of photos you want to print, ensuring that each image remains clear and attractive.
3. Professional Portfolio
A portfolio is a representation of artwork or photography that should reflect professionalism. Therefore, 300gsm paper is highly recommended.
This paper delivers highly detailed prints, vivid colors, and a luxurious feel to the touch. Portfolios with thick paper also show high quality to clients or audiences, making Morians' work look more exclusive and classy.
Conclusion and Recommendations
Choosing the paper thickness for a photo book is no small matter; it is an important decision that can impact the overall viewing experience of the album.
By understanding the differences between various paper grammages and their impact on print results and durability, Morians can make the right choice according to their needs.
By considering all the factors above, Morians will certainly be able to create a photobook that is not only beautiful but also long-lasting as a treasure trove of memories. Happy working!