How to Print on Glossy Photo Paper

Printing on glossy paper requires the right combination of printer settings, paper type, and handling to avoid smudges, streaks, or dull-looking results. Most issues happen when the printer isn’t set to “glossy” or “photo paper,” which controls how much ink is applied and how it bonds to the coated surface.

To get sharp, vibrant prints, you need to load the paper correctly, select the proper media setting, and allow enough drying time after printing. This guide shows you exactly how to print on glossy paper for photos, cards, and high-quality graphics, so your prints come out crisp, color-rich, and smudge-free every time.

HOW TO PRINT ON GLOSSY PAPER

1. Choose the Right Paper

We stand behind all Red River Paper options discussed above!

2. Be Design Ready

Make sure your design is formatted correctly, paying special attention to the dimensions and resolution. A resolution of 300 PPI is suggested for photographs.

3. Adjust Printer Settings

Before you hit "Print", set up your printer for glossy paper. Here are some general guidelines for both inkjet and laser printers.

4. Paper Type

In the printer settings, look for options such as "Glossy Photo Paper."

5. Quality

For Canon printers, choose "High." For Epson printers, choose Photo or 1440dpi. For HP and other printers, choose "High" or "Best."

6. Color Mode

Set to "RGB" for color printing or "Grayscale" for black-and-white printing.

7. Load Paper

To avoid jams and misfeeds, check your manual for paper-loading instructions. You may be able to load your glossy paper into the paper tray, or you may need to manually feed it through a designated slot.

8. Do a Test Run

To prevent wasting your glossy paper, print a test on regular copy paper so you can adjust alignment and other issues.

9. Print Away!

When you're happy with the test print, it's time for the real deal.

10. Let Prints Dry

Allow prints to sit for a few minutes before handling or storage. This allows the ink to fully dry (also called outgassing). Avoid touching the print side of your paper with your fingers. If you plan to handle prints regularly, cotton gloves are recommended.

11. Protect Your Prints

Framing your glossy prints is a great way to preserve them. We recommend using anti-glare glass to reduce reflections from the paper.

LET'S REFLECT ON GLOSSY PHOTO PAPER

Bold. Bright. Sharp. If these are the qualities you're looking for when displaying your work, glossy photo printing paper is calling your name. Smooth with a highly reflective surface, glossy paper reflects the most amount of light, so your eyes will see the most color saturation, density, and brightness. Its glossy coating traps inkjet inks, ensuring sharp detail and vibrant colors.

Another benefit of glossy paper is that it can withstand handling quite well. Together, these qualities make glossy paper a fitting choice for photo books, portfolios, greeting cards, and high-quality prints worth framing.

LET RED RIVER PAPER JAZZ UP YOUR OPTIONS

We're proud to offer six different glossy photo inkjet papers - some of the best on the market, at prices well below retail brands.

BEST SELLER: ULTRAPRO GLOSS 270
Enjoy vivid colors and deep blacks with any inkjet printer. The 10.4 mil. thickness feels like photo lab quality. Dries instantly for resistance to smears.

BEST SELLER: POLAR GLOSS METALLIC 255
A unique inkjet paper, the shimmery surface closely matches the look of photo lab metallic prints.

BEST SELLER: PECOS RIVER GLOSS 230
Ideal glossy for greeting cards, note cards, and design presentations.

Also check out our PECOS RIVER GLOSS 360 PHOTO PAPER (the heaviest and thickest photo glossy stock on the market today), PECOS RIVER GLOSS 320 DUO (exclusive to Red River Paper, this is the heaviest, thickest double-sided glossy on the market), and PECOS RIVER GLOSS 155 (a budget-friendly premium glossy paper).

The best way to familiarize yourself with various glossy papers is to purchase a small quantity or order a sample kit if available. Then, print something from each genre of your photo library to see how the paper represents your work.

SUMMING IT UP

When you need your photo prints to be as bold and bright as possible, glossy paper shines and reflects well on you! For further exploration, see our resources titled Glossy Photo Paper and Glossy vs. Matte Photo Paper for Printing.

Original Publication Date: March 18, 2024

Article Last updated: May 01, 2026

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