Canon Pro 9500 MK II Printer paper help and opinions

OK. I have been reading alot lately anout this printer and finally ordered one today.

I will be taking pictures of First Communion in the month of May. I need to setup this printer with the best paper.

I have been reading that Ilford's Gallerie Smooth Pearl and Glossy are the way top go.

- Can someone tell me if I should use the pearl for the pictures I will be taking outside with the people mostly dressed up in white and black? They will be printed in 2 x 3, 3.5 x 5, 4 x 6, 5 x 7, 6 x 9, 8 x 10, 11 x 14.

- When I take closeup pictures of the child, would it be better to use the pearl or glossy to create the best skin tones?

- Has anyone tried the Canon Platinum Pro sheets?

Thx

The smooth pearl is pretty dang nice for almost anything. You should try some Hahnemuhle or similar cotton rag papers (Canon Photo Rag is made by Hahnemuhle), as they are very nice for portraits. Rag is not really an economical option for the small print sizes though.

I've got a sample pack on the way from Red River, which apparently produces papers equal to most other brands, but at a cheaper price. I'll see how that claim holds up though.

I am really looking into using the PT-101 series of papers from Canon. I figure they are the best to suit the printer since it's the same brand.

I am not worried about price as each 4x6 is being sold for $3.00 each so it covers my ink and my paper and more.

I have a 9500 and both the Ilford Smooth Pearl and Smooth Gloss papers. If you use the proper ICC profiles, provided on Ilfords web site, and know how to apply them, I think you'll find that color and tone are a close match on either paper. I'm not a big fan of glossy so I lean towards the pearl myself.

With that said, you have until May to do some experimenting to find what YOU like best. You can get a 25 sheet box of each for $12.50 from B&H.

Scott

Ive got nothing but good things to say about my 9500 mk ii and Ilford Smooth Pearl. It is a wonderful combo for sure.

I just purchased:

4x6 x 100pk x2 = 200 - Canon Pro Platinim - all for $92.00 USD
8x10 x 20pk x2 = 40 - Canon Pro Platinim

5x7 x 20pk x5 = 100 - Canon Photo Plus Glossy II - $49.99 CND

8.5x11 x 20pk x 1 = 20 - Canon Pro Platinim - $19.00 USD
13x19 x 10pk x 1 = 10 - Canon Pro Platinim - $27.00 USD

8.5x11 x 5pk x 1 Ilford Galerie Gold Sample - $5.00 CND

I think I am set and amsticking to canon. The Ilford is just as expensive in some sizes.

What software do you gys use to crop and print? The Elements 6.0 that cames with it?

I if that is the case I will be upgrading it to V8.0. I was hoping I could use DPP...