I was wondering if the use of fiber based paper is actually superior to RC paper. I'm a newcomer to this hobby and I have been using RC paper, and I like the results. Can anyone tell me any advantages to fiber, and also any processing advice? (Especially washing and drying hints) Thanks!

-- Luke Phillips (LP22@hotmail.com), September 17, 1997

Answers

As to why you would use fibre based paper over RC, it is simple. We KNOW properly processed prints on fibre paper will last because they have. RC hasn't been around that long, even tho accelerated aging tests say it will last the same or longer. We won't really know if it will last until it has. As to color of paper & image, this is a personal choice. Print on each & see what works for you. As for surface characteristics, same thing. But, you will fine every really good fine art printer in the business using double or heavier weight fitre based paper, & it is not by accident. It works & we know it works. That is why it is used. Use what works for you, RC or Fibre based or hand coated. Use what works for YOU.

-- Dan Smith (shooter@brigham.net), September 20, 1997.

Fiber vs RC

As Dan said only time will tell for the permanence of RC paper. It is not recongized as being 'archival' so if you want to print images that you know will last for ages then use fiber-based paper. However make sure that you wash properly or the paper will stain rapidly. As for image quality I think RC has made great strides since it's inception for black and white. Alot of photographers may make test prints with RC, since it is faster, but will make their final prints on fiber. I rarely use fiber so I can't give good advice on washing.

-- Andy Laycock (pbrlab@unixg.ubc.ca), September 20, 1997.

I just finished re-printing a number of images for show on Fibre based paper. The 'apparent' depth and tone is (for these images at least) much better than the RC prints I did of them. Part is due to the way the paper appears in the light. As good as RC papers are they do reflect light differently and have a different look than fibre based papers. I know I can actually get a greater tonal range with the RC paper but it is not a 'better' range. Most of the prints for this one I did on fibre based paper with one on RC since it was a subject that worked well on that particular glossy surface. The only way to really be sure which you like is to try some of both with the same neg. Then, finish each all the way to matting & mounting. Hang on the wall & compare. At times I find I like a print all the way to the mounting & then find I have to reprint lighter, darker, etc because in spite of all the work, once mounted it just doesn't cut it. Happens with RC and fibre based both.

-- Dan Smith (shooter@brigham.net), September 27, 1997.

Thanks for the tips

Thanks to all for your helpful tips. I plan on doing a little testing with both types of papers as Dan suggested. One question I still have is concerning using hypo-clear with fiber based paper. Is it a good practice, or is just a straight washing sufficient? Anyone with some experience in the matter, I would appreciate any advice. Thanks!

-- Luke Phillips (LP22@hotmail.com), September 28, 1997.

Use a hype clear. If you check around you will find that almost every good custom & fine art printer uses the stuff. It saves headaches in the future & saves a bit of water as well. Read some back issues of Photo Techniques for good articles on print rinsing. In an informal survey of friends who do this for a living, it is amazing how many come up with pretty much the same materials(not brands), way of working and basic techniques. From AA to Sexton & in between, nearly everyone who is serious learns that if you want it to last, it is much cheaper to do it right in the first place. Reprinting fading prints is too expensive & the results of cutting corners will show up in the future.

-- Dan Smith (shooter@brigham.net), October 06, 1997.

Fiber vs. RC papers

I began using RC papers when they first came out because of the ease of washing. Recommended times were 5 minutes. I do 10 minutes, mimimun. The only problem I've seen reported was that the resin seemed to separate from the paper backing, in the first few years, due to room/storage temps and humidity, (or lack of humidity), but I would thing the technology has improved ofer the years. Fiber IS best for archival prints. Try it --- you'll like it.

-- H. David Huffman (craptalk@ix.netcom.com), May 12, 1999.

For fiber paper, if longevity is what you're using it for, always use a wash aid, always give a sufficient wash, and always give at least protective toning. If you skip any of these, a five-minute-washed RC print may well last longer.

-- John Hicks / John's Camera Shop (jbh@magicnet.net), May 13, 1999.