Selecting the right darkroom enlarging paper is crucial for achieving the desired aesthetic in your photographic prints. The paper's characteristics significantly influence contrast, tonal range, and the overall mood of your images. Understanding these factors will empower you to make an informed choice that elevates your darkroom work.
Looking for the best Darkroom Enlarging Paper?
Discover now our comparison of the best Darkroom Enlarging Paper. It is never easy to choose from the wide range of offers. On the market, you will find an incalculable number of models, all at different prices. And as you will discover, the best Darkroom Enlarging Paper are not always the ones at the highest prices! Many criteria are used, and they make the richness and relevance of this comparison.
To help you make the best choice among the hundreds of products available, we have decided to offer you a comparison of the Darkroom Enlarging Paper in order to find the best quality/price ratio. In this ranking, you will find products listed according to their price, but also their characteristics and the opinions of other customers. Also discover our comparisons by categories. You won’t have to choose your products at random anymore.
- Ilford Multigrade IV RC Deluxe Pearl 5x7 25 Sheets
- Ilford Multigrade IV RC Deluxe Resin Coated VC Variable Contrast Black & White Enlarging Paper - 8x10" - 25 Sheets - Glossy Surface
- Resin Coated
- Non-developer incorporated
- Sparkling whites
- Rich blacks
- Wide tonal range
- Cool to neutral image color
- Premium quality paper
- Bright Base Tint
- Use with All Brands Multigrade Filters
- Can be processed in machine or trays
- Special Technology: The Ilford Multigrade RC Deluxe is the 5th generation of the world's most popular range of black and white photo papers and utilizes the latest emulsion technology
- Sheet Size: The papers are available in a 5 x 7 inches size
- For Beginners: This paper is the perfect choice for beginners, students and darkroom pro delivers a full tonal range and exceptional image quality throughout its wide contrast range of grades 00-5
- Excellent Toning: These papers offer excellent toning properties giving those who want to experiment or learn toning an alternative starting option to Ilford’s fiber-based papers
- Gen 5 Advantage: Generation 5 has a slightly warmer base tint than Gen 4, better blacks for greater depth, improved mid-grade spacing and a smoother sensometric curve providing more uniform contrast throughout the tonal range
- Ilford Multigrade IV RC Deluxe Pearl 8x10 25 Sheets
- Resin Coated
- Bright White Base Tint
- Designed for use with all enlargers
- Designed for Commercial Photo Labs
- Perfect for All Print Formats
- Superb Colors, Pure Whites
- Exceptional Color Image Stability & Sharpness
- Backprinted with "Fujicolor Crystal Archive Paper"
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Last update on 2026-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
How to Choose the Best Darkroom Enlarging Paper
Choosing the Right Base Material
- Fiber-Based Paper: Known for its archival quality and superior tonal range, fiber-based paper is a favorite among professionals. It offers a richer blacks and brighter whites, but requires more careful handling and longer drying times.
- RC (Resin-Coated) Paper: This type of paper features a plastic coating that makes it more resistant to chemicals and easier to handle. RC papers dry quickly and are more forgiving for beginners, though some argue they don't offer the same depth of tonality as fiber-based options.
Understanding Paper Surfaces
- Glossy: Offers a high-sheen finish that can make images appear sharp and vibrant. It's excellent for showcasing fine detail but can be prone to fingerprints and reflections.
- Pearl/Luster: This surface provides a subtle texture and a semi-gloss finish, offering a good balance between detail and fingerprint resistance. It's a versatile choice for many types of photography.
- Matte: Characterized by its non-reflective, textured surface, matte paper offers a subdued and elegant look. It's ideal for portraits and fine art prints where minimizing glare is important.
Graded vs. Graded Papers
- Graded Papers: These papers have a fixed contrast grade, typically ranging from 0 (soft) to 5 (hard). They are straightforward to use but offer less flexibility in contrast control.
- Graded Papers (Multigrade/Variable Contrast): These papers allow you to adjust the contrast using colored filters during exposure. This offers immense creative control, enabling you to fine-tune the look of each print.
Weight and Thickness
- Paper weight is often indicated by grams per square meter (gsm) or in pounds. Heavier papers generally feel more substantial and are more durable, especially fiber-based options. Consider the handling and archival needs of your prints when selecting weight.
Comparison Tips
- Test Strips: Always make test strips to determine the correct exposure and filtration for your specific negative and desired print contrast.
- Archival Needs: For prints intended for long-term display or sale, fiber-based papers are generally preferred due to their superior longevity.
- Ease of Use: If you are new to darkroom printing or prioritize speed, RC papers offer a more user-friendly experience.