Quality
Print Quality & Materials
Archival-grade prints on professional Kodak paper—built to last generations.
What we look for
SmilePlease aims for portraits that feel school-appropriate, recognizable, and parent-reviewed before purchase.
- A recognizable child identity based on the parent-provided source photos.
- A school-portrait style with age-appropriate presentation.
- No obvious artifacts that materially affect the face, eyes, mouth, hands, clothing, or background.
- Output that matches the selected product and preview as closely as practical.
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, fine art standard, rated longevity, and verifiable quality make this more than marketing hype—it is 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 will not 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 is how our prints stack up against what you typically get from school photo day:
| Feature | Traditional school photos | SmilePlease |
|---|---|---|
| Paper weight | Thin, standard weight | Premium heavyweight (50% thicker) |
| Paper type | Generic photo paper | Kodak Professional |
| Color stability | 10-20 years typical | 100+ years archival |
| Finish | High gloss (fingerprints) | Semi-gloss (no glare, rich colors) |
| Water resistance | Limited protection | Water-resistant coating |
| Quality certification | None / Undisclosed | Independently certified to last 100+ years |
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, color permanence, and archival stability.
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.
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 will not 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.
Can I get prints on different paper?
Currently, all prints use Kodak Professional Inkjet Lustre paper. We chose this paper because it is 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.
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