Best Fine Art Papers for Epson ET-8550 & 8000
Updated: 2 days ago
Finding the right paper is like unlocking the last secret to printing amazing photography on the Epson ET-8000 and ET-8550. I am going to show you exactly the best papers that I use to print amazing quality photos on my Epson printer. Read on to discover exactly which paper I use on which images and why.
TLDR:
The best papers for the Epson ET-8000 and 8550
I use RedRiver Paper with my Epson Et-8550.
They provide ICC color profiles for the Epson Et-8550 and each paper.
I use Aurora Art Natural 250 for my Mat paper.
I use Polar Luster Metallic for my photo paper.
Both are excellent with this printer.
If you own an Epson ET-8000 or 8550 you know they can produce some excellent prints. But if there is one thing that will most affect how your images and prints turn out, it's the paper.
Paper choice is almost as important as your camera settings.
I have tested several papers in this printer and can say without a doubt that RedRiver Paper is amongst the absolute best when it comes to quality and consistency.
I am now a RedRiver Paper affiliate after using their papers for quite a long time. If you use any links on this page I may earn on any qualifying purchase. I'd like to say thank you as it really helps support my work. There is no additional cost to you.
Check out all the RedRiver paper options here - Click Here.
Why RedRiver Paper?
High quality.
Consistent paper.
ICC Color Profiles provided.
Excellent customer service.
USA based.
Which Exact RedRiver Papers Do I Use?
To keep things simple and my prints consistent I use two types of papers for my landscape photography images.
A Matte paper for my softer images that have less saturation and less contrast.
And a Luster Metallic paper for amazing crisp details, beautiful saturation and serious 3D pop.
Made in the USA using 100% cotton, Aurora Art Natural 250 brings elegance, warmth, and nuance to your photography and art prints. This acid-free paper features a pleasing natural white tone and semi-smooth surface. Plus, Aurora Art Natural 250 contains no optical brighteners.
Is a 100% cotton fiber, semi-smooth (hot press) fine art and photography paper. This Aurora features a brighter white shade for crisp color tones printing an image, semi-smooth surface, an acid-free base stock and coating. Made in the USA.
Is a truly unique inkjet paper that closely matches the look of photo lab metallic prints. Polar Luster Metallic features the same aspects as its lab equivalent - an elegant luster (E-surface) finish on a pearlescent base stock that yields a stunning iridescence in your images. It is compatible with any inkjet printer and requires no special equipment, inks, or finishing techniques to achieve the metallic effect.
Pro Tip: If you aren't using a calibrated monitor to edit, don't worry about your colors just do this. Buy a box of 8.5x11 or smaller and test multiple edit versions on one page before committing to a larger paper and print.
A few things to check out if you're new to printing too...
Acid free artist tape - https://amzn.to/4xtzGSj
Silicon Air Blower/Duster - https://amzn.to/4xovPpG
These are the Mats that I use - https://amzn.to/4i3ovew
These frames are great value/quality - https://amzn.to/4x2e1jk
Thanks for reading!
Check this out next!
See how I Print, Mat & Frame on the Epson Et-8550 [Linked YouTube Video]
Frequently Asked Questions Best Papers for the ET-8550 & ET-8000
What are the best photo papers to use with the Epson EcoTank ET-8550?
Red River Paper is highly recommended for the Epson ET-8550 because of its exceptional consistency and quality. They provide dedicated ICC color profiles specifically for this printer model, ensuring your prints look exactly like your digital files.
Which matte paper should I use for art and landscape photography prints?
Red River Aurora Art Natural 250 is the top choice for matte prints. Made from 100% cotton in the USA, this acid-free paper features a warm white tone with semi-smooth finish and contains no optical brighteners, making it perfect for softer images with lower contrast. If you prefer a cooler tone, Aurora Art White 250 offers a brighter base for crisper colors.
How do I get a photo lab metallic look from my home printer?
You can achieve a striking iridescent effect using Red River Polar Luster Metallic 255. It features an elegant luster finish on a pearlescent base stock that yields an incredible 3D pop, vibrant color saturation, and crisp detail without needing any special inks or equipment.
How can I make sure my print colors look accurate if my monitor isn't calibrated?
Before printing a massive layout, buy a smaller box of paper (like 8.5" x 11") and print multiple miniature test versions of your edited image onto a single sheet. This lets you preview how the ink responds to the paper surface before committing to a final large-format print.
What accessories do I need to mat and frame my finished photography prints?
To prepare prints for display, you should use acid-free artist tape to prevent paper discoloration over time. You will also need a silicone air blower to clear dust off the glass, high-quality pre-cut matboards (such as Golden State Art 18x24 mats for 13x19 prints), and a clean 18x24 wall frame to pull the gallery presentation together.
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My Links & Stuff
My Website: https://www.paulfaracephotography.com/
100+ Ideas for Landscape Photographers Book: https://amzn.to/4cinISm
How to Extreme Focus Stack Ebook: https://amzn.to/48wEgon
North East Florida Guide: https://www.paulfaracephotography.com/florida-photo-guide
Marineland Seascape 1on1 Guide: https://www.paulfaracephotography.com/marineland
My Gear
My cameras: https://amzn.to/4vgrOTL
My wide angle lens: https://amzn.to/3QfoRTf
My mid range lens: https://amzn.to/4sV4U2y
My telephoto lens: https://amzn.to/48bU687
My drone: https://amzn.to/3PVgdt7
My action cam: https://amzn.to/4t2Knck
My microphones: https://amzn.to/4dE4n0a
My ND filter: https://amzn.to/4c2cLWe
My circular polarizer: https://amzn.to/41XllQ0
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