Paper base refers to the physical support material on which photographic emulsion is coated for printing. It provides the foundation for light-sensitive layers and contributes to the durability, flexibility, and handling characteristics of photographic paper.
The choice of paper base affects the final prints texture, strength, and archival quality. Common types include resin-coated (RC) and fibre-based papers, each offering different qualities for darkroom printing, toning, and long-term preservation of photographs.