Quality

Print Quality & Materials

Archival-grade prints on professional Kodak paper—built to last generations.

Last updated: January 1, 2026

Technical specifications

Paper
Kodak Professional
Weight
Premium heavyweight (50% thicker than standard prints)
Finish
Semi-gloss (no glare, rich colors)
Color stability
Independently certified to last 100+ years when stored properly*
Sustainability
Sustainably sourced
Production
Professional resolution for sharp, detailed images

*Per manufacturer testing and ArtSure certification by the Fine Art Trade Guild.

Independent quality certification

ArtSure Certified by the Fine Art Trade Guild

Independently tested and approved since 1847

Our Kodak Professional paper carries ArtSure certification—an independent seal of quality from the Fine Art Trade Guild, the world's leading print registration authority since 1847.

Independent testing – Rigorously tested by third-party experts
Fine art standard – Same certification used by museums and galleries
Rated longevity – Certified to resist fading for 100+ years
Verifiable quality – Check the FATG registry

This isn't marketing hype—it's independently verified proof that your child's portraits will last for generations.

See the difference quality makes

Learn how ArtSure certification ensures your prints will stay vibrant and beautiful for 100+ years.

Video courtesy of Kodak Professional

Why our paper matters

We use Kodak Professional Inkjet Lustre Photo Paper (255gsm)—the industry standard for professional photography studios, wedding photographers, and fine art reproduction. This isn't the thin paper you get from drugstore prints or traditional school photo packages.

Premium heavyweight paper

Our paper is 50% thicker than standard consumer photo prints. You'll feel the difference the moment you hold it—substantial, rigid, and premium. It won't bend, curl, or feel flimsy like traditional school photos.

Archival quality

Kodak Professional paper is rated for 100+ years of color stability when stored properly. Your grandchildren will be able to enjoy these photos just as vibrant as the day they were printed. This is the same paper museums use for fine art reproduction.

Independently certified for longevity

Our paper doesn't just claim to be archival—it's proven. ArtSure certification from the Fine Art Trade Guild means our paper has passed rigorous independent testing for lightfastness (won't fade from light), color permanence (colors stay true for 100+ years), and material stability (won't yellow or deteriorate).

Sustainably sourced

Our paper is Forest Stewardship Council certified, meaning it comes from responsibly managed forests. You can feel good about both the quality and the environmental impact of your purchase.

Water-resistant coating that protects against spills

The protective coating makes our prints water-resistant and prevents curling or deterioration over time. Accidental spills, humid environments, and everyday handling won't damage your photos.

Smudge-proof surface—safe to handle immediately

The surface is smudge-proof and safe to handle immediately after printing. No waiting, no special handling required—your prints arrive ready to display, frame, or share.

Semi-gloss (no glare, rich colors)

Our semi-gloss finish is the professional standard for portrait photography. It reduces glare and fingerprints while keeping colors vibrant and skin tones natural. Unlike glossy prints, you can view these from any angle without distracting reflections.

Professional lab printing

Every print is produced at professional resolution for sharp, detailed images on professional lab equipment by Finerworks, a US-based fine art printing company in business since 2002. They serve professional photographers, artists, and galleries nationwide.

Compare to traditional school photos

Here's how our prints stack up against what you typically get from school photo day:

Paper weight

Traditional school photos

Thin, standard weight

SmilePlease

Premium heavyweight (50% thicker)

Paper type

Traditional school photos

Generic photo paper

SmilePlease

Kodak Professional

Color stability

Traditional school photos

10-20 years typical

SmilePlease

100+ years archival

Finish

Traditional school photos

High gloss (fingerprints)

SmilePlease

Semi-gloss (no glare, rich colors)

Water resistance

Traditional school photos

Limited protection

SmilePlease

Water-resistant coating

Quality certification

Traditional school photos

None / Undisclosed

SmilePlease

Independently certified to last 100+ years

Sustainability

Traditional school photos

Varies by vendor

SmilePlease

Sustainably sourced

Preview before purchase

Traditional school photos

No preview available

SmilePlease

Yes, 6 variations

Retakes

Traditional school photos

One shot on picture day

SmilePlease

Starter access includes 1 photo set + 3 retakes.

Frequently asked questions

What is ArtSure certification and why does it matter?

ArtSure is an independent certification from the Fine Art Trade Guild—the world's leading print registration authority since 1847. To earn ArtSure certification, photo paper must pass rigorous third-party testing for lightfastness (resistance to fading from light exposure), color permanence (maintaining accurate colors over decades), and archival stability (paper won't yellow or deteriorate).

Many "photo quality" papers claim to be archival but have never been independently tested. Within 5-10 years, colors fade and paper yellows. ArtSure certification is proof—not just marketing—that your child's portraits will stay beautiful for generations. It's the same quality standard used by museums and professional fine art galleries. You can verify our paper's certification at the Fine Art Trade Guild Substrate Registry.

Will my prints fade over time?

Our Kodak Professional paper is rated for 100+ years of color stability when stored away from direct sunlight. Even displayed in normal room lighting, you can expect decades of vibrant color. For maximum longevity, frame prints under UV-protective glass.

Are these prints safe for framing?

Absolutely. Our lustre finish is ideal for framing—it reduces glare from glass and won't stick to the frame. Many professional framers specifically recommend lustre prints for portraits.

What if my prints arrive damaged?

Contact us within 14 days with photos of the damage. We'll send a free replacement or issue a full refund—your choice. No need to return the damaged prints. See our Refund Policy for details.

Who prints my photos?

All prints are produced by Finerworks, a professional fine art printing company based in the United States. They've been serving professional photographers, artists, and galleries since 2002. Learn more about our partners on the About page.

Can I get prints on different paper?

Currently, all prints use Kodak Professional Inkjet Lustre paper. We chose this paper because it's the industry standard for portrait photography—it offers the best balance of color accuracy, durability, and viewing experience.

Our quality promise

We want you to be thrilled with your portraits. Every print is produced on professional Kodak photo paper—the same archival-quality material used by wedding photographers, portrait studios, and museums. If your prints arrive damaged or defective, we'll replace them or refund you—no questions asked.

Read our Refund Policy →

Ready to get started?

Upload a photo and see your AI-generated portrait variations in about 60 seconds. Preview all 6 variations before you decide—no payment required until you're ready.

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