New Ilford paper

[venchka]

This is interesting.

The Online Photographer: New Premium Silver Paper from Ilford: Art 300

[The Philos]

I'm interested in trying some out.

[Big Dog]

Welcome to ILFORD PHOTO

Tim Rudman and others have been doing some beta testing.

I think one of the most interesting things about this paper, that has not been mentioned anywhere that I've seen, is that it is being coated on a paper base made by another company (in and of itself, not unusual) that is healthy and has a long term future. One of the "doom and gloom" themes about the future of B&W printing paper is that sooner or later, the baryta base it's coated on will not be made anymore. According to rumor, that is one of the factors that led to the demise of Kodak papers.

Anyway, it may or may not be one's "cup of tea" as a paper, but it is an encouraging development.

PS: I've read some blog posts that make it sound as if this is the first time B&W paper has been available in 13 years, rather than just the first new product.

[venchka]

Bloggers. I'll be nice.
The other tidbit is that this paper may be available for inkjet later in the year.
I wonder if this has anything to do with the demise of the highly regarded super silver Bergger paper that disappeared a few years ago? Ilford recognizing a void in the market and filling it? The tie in with Hahnemühle is very encouraging.