Which paper type is best for photo books — and why it matters?

The best paper for your albumworks Photo Book depends on the look and feel you want. We offer a curated range of premium, archival-quality papers, each carefully chosen to enhance photo detail, page feel, and long-term preservation.

Paper isn’t just what your photos are printed on — it shapes how your memories are experienced, both visually and in your hands.

Why archival quality paper matters

At albumworks, all our papers are archival-grade, meaning they are acid-free and designed for long-term preservation. Archival papers resist yellowing, fading, and deterioration over time, making them ideal for keepsakes you want to enjoy for years — even generations.

Understanding paper weight

We describe paper thickness in gsm (grams per square metre). The higher the gsm, the thicker and more luxurious the paper feels. Our papers range from 150gsm for a light, elegant finish to 400gsm for thick, board-like Layflat pages.

Paper options for albumworks Photo Books

Classic Photo Books (Perfect Bound)

The choice of paper types for our Classic Photo Books depends on whether you choose Hi Colour or Standard Colour printing.

• Hi Colour Classic Photo Books:
  
  

• 260gsm Photo Luster: Smooth, semi-gloss paper with a luxurious, substantial feel. Colours appear vibrant, with smooth light reflection that’s not overly shiny.
  
  

• 190gsm Photo Luster: Slightly lighter and more flexible — perfect for longer stories or books with a higher page count.
  
  

• Standard Colour Classic Photo Books:
  
  

• 150gsm Premium Silk: Light, smooth paper with a refined  finish.
  
  

• 190gsm Pearl upgrade: Offers a gentle sheen and a soft, elegant texture for a more premium feel.

Layflat Photo Books

Our Layflat Photo Books are printed on ultra-thick, durable 400gsm paper that feels more like fine art board than traditional photo paper. Perfect for a gallery-style, high-end finish.

• 400gsm E-Photo Lustre: Smooth, semi-gloss paper that beautifully enhances photo sharpness and colour vibrancy.
  
  

• 400gsm E-Photo Matte: A soft, tactile matte finish ideal for full-spread images and panoramic designs where minimal surface reflection is desired.

Why paper choice matters

The paper you choose influences:

• How sharp and vibrant your photos appear

• How the pages turn and feel in your hands

• How long your book will last

Thicker papers add weight and impact, while smoother finishes bring out photo detail. The right paper elevates your book from simply beautiful to truly unforgettable.

Need help choosing the best paper option for your Photo Book?

You can explore our paper types on the Photo Books page, or get in touch with our experienced customer service team — we’re happy to talk you through the options or send you free paper samples so you can see and feel the difference for yourself.