Never Printed. Need Portfolio

[ICE]

Okay guys, Ive never printed out my pictures before and I really need to make a portfolio pretty soon. The thing is i dont know anything about what kind of paper to use and probably more things that i can't even think of.

I was thinking of just giving my pictures to a photo printing store to have em print out for me, but what do I ask for?

What kind of paper/material should I be using?

P.S Portfolio is for an interview for a photo course I hope to take

Thanks guys

[Photologyst]

Have some test shots printed on various papers from a bona fide lab known for excellent prints: AdoramaPix Prints

Make sure that your monitor is properly calibrated. The PC illumination is critical when you PS process. If it’s too bright, your prints will come out too dark.

[teaking]

My top tip is if your sure your monitor is showing you pretty much what it should... always do a quick levels check before you print to make sure your maximising your histogram and spreading the tones over the full available dynamic range. Get the most out of what you have

[medicnai]

Personally, I use an online photo lab (Nations Photo Lab) and I mainly use the lustre finish paper. I've never had a problem with anything that they've sent me, and the colors are pretty much spot on (I also had to calibrate my monitor, and when you initially sign up you can order test prints). You also have the option to have them do an auto color correction, however I've never used this option. Hope it all works well for you.

[Ubergeek]

I use a company called The Print Space:

Photo Prints | Online Photo Printing | Print Photos | Digital Photo Printing

And mostly always get my prints on Kodak Metallic which has a rich metallic base, gives great quality prints.