First post here, long time reader, hope to be able to contribute even a fraction of the amount I've learned from this site and community.
As part of a project for a university art program, I am printing and framing roughly 15-20 large prints. Since I have an Epson Pro 3800, and most of the shots were taken with a 12+MP camera (D3), I figure 17x22 should be ok. Pictures will all be mounted and framed, unknown at this point if I will be mounting behind glass or not.
The problem I'm facing is in my paper selection. I spent some time looking over various paper options, but I think I walked away more confused then I went in.
Subject matter is going to vary widely, but they must all use the same paper. No portraits, but a good deal of architecture, city shots, landscapes, industrial, nature, and still life. I have ruled out a full glossy paper, as well as a canvas. Paper must come in sheets cut to size.
What I am looking for is a paper that is a smooth matte. I would like to avoid a fully textured paper, and would rather go for something more uniform. I want images to have a relaxed look, yet still retain sharpness and deffiniton. Some possible papers I have in my collection, but have yet to test, are the Hahnemuhle Photo Rag Pearl and Fine Art Pearl (neither of which actually look like a traditional pearl paper) as well as Moab Colorado Satin and Lasal Photo Matte. I have not had a chance to take a look at any of the Epson Professional papers, although I have heard excellent reviews of the Epson Exhibition Fiber Paper.
Budget for paper and ink is ~$400. I have yet to look into the price for framing, but I am expecting around $50-75 per picture.
Any suggestions you can give of papers that have worked well for you, or that perhaps you have used that I have yet to take a look at, or just any advice in general, would be welcomed.