A3 printer + paper

[michael_g]

Hi

I'm looking for an A3 photo printer, in professional quality prints.
Just a few prints per week, so not some huge industrial printer.

I've been looking at the
Canon Pixma Pro 9500 mk 2
and
Epson R 3000

It's the price level I'm considering. Is one better then the other? - i have canon gear, but i can't imagine a situation when I would print directly from the camera, so compatibility doesn't sell it for me.

As for paper, I've tried a few types, but I'm still a bit lost.
What type would you use for photos of wildlife, landscape etc?
What do I get when I pay more?
I know what glossy etc is, but what do I get?
Do they last longer?
Do todays prints last pretty much for ever?
Is it all down to the thickness/weight of the paper? 260 g/m2 etc


Michael

[keystrokesuk]

In terms of paper have a look at the Ilford inkjet range http://www.ilford.ch/en/products/consumer/index.asp you really need to match the ink to the paper to give the best results.

In terms of the printers the Epson will use Piezo electric control to get the ink on the paper whilst the Canon will use Thermal control. In most cases your eye will not notice the difference but the Epson will give cleaner dots. I am not sure if there are any stores who will let you test your shortlist of printers with a shot you have taken, but that way you can judge the results for yourself.