When preparing for a paper-based print project, one of the choices before you is “what paper stock should I use?” In printing, paper stock is defined by multiple metrics such as: weight, coating, finish/texture and brightness.
What is Paper Brightness?
Brightness measures the reflectivity of a particular wavelength (457 nanometers) of blue light on white paper. There is a scale of 1 to 100, with most paper we typically use scoring somewhere between 80 and 100. The lower the score, the less clear or vibrant the printed output. So the higher the brightness score, the crisper and more sharp will be printed colors and images. Brighter paper also renders ink colors more accurately.
For most quality print jobs, the paper used will score somewhere between 92 and 96 on the brightness scale. 92 is typical for items that are heavy on text as high brightness can be hard on the eyes if viewed for extended periods. But pieces intended to make an impact (i.e., image-heavy items, etc.), benefit from papers scoring 96 or higher in brightness.
If the piece is meant to have a softer, muted appearance, a lower brightness score can be appropriate. If you are producing something using old or low-quality images, a lower brightness paper can help soften the impact of imperfect source graphics.
Brightness Isn’t Whiteness or Shade
There are many shades or versions of white paper. Brightness does not refer to whiteness or shades of white, just to the reflectivity of a specific wavelength of blue light.
If you have any questions about paper brightness, give us a call at 330-597-8560. We’re happy to help you get the most out of your printing project.
