Digital BW, The Print

Steve,

I totally agree that their is no one perfect paper for all, and yes I think
it is important to try various papers before deciding on what suits you
best. I have used Somerset Velvet for 4 years now and it is a preferred
paper of choice with my particular ink and printer set-up, not for all work
but for a lot of it.

I have as I said never experienced flaking with this paper and I have
produced blacks that no-one yet has questioned.

I believe Somerset is more suited to Fine Art printing however and that
those seeking a more conventional "Photographic" print may be better advised
to look at other papers.

We are all looking for the perfect medium for our own work, this is one
valid choice among many that offer different levels of appeal or
performance.

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on 11/6/05 7:36 PM, Steve Kale at wrote:

> Yes.  I think one should try it but I don't like collecting boxes of paper
> that I will eventually never use. I'd recommend that someone wanting to try
> the paper only request a test pack before buying a box. I have three boxes
> of SEV in the closet.  It's a pity because I do like the finish and it
> doesn't have the flaking issues of say HPR.  And it has a bright looking
> white.  But I have found the blacks to be weak (at least with MIS UC inks on
> the 2100) and that's a killer for me.  They are just so important with B&W
> (much more so than with colour work).  I have for now settled with HPR and
> Permajet Alpha as my matte papers (each of which I spray with Lascaux
> Fixative). PA is much warmer than HPR.  But since I got my 4800 I much
> prefer photo paper, specifically Epson Premium Semi Gloss, for B&W.  The
> extra dynamic range is just so compelling.  But I won't stop wishing for a
> better matte black...  :-)
> 
> 
>> From: Tony Kelly <tonyk@...>
> 
>> Okay, it seems it's about opinion  and personal preferences largely .. I
>> wouldn't exclude any paper on the basis of someone's likes or dislikes if it
>> suits many others though
> 
> 
>