Keith looks at how soft proofing is not the cure-all some would have you believe. It can help, but it's no substitute for actually understanding how prints look and papers differ.

Printer test images are available at:
http://www.northlight-images.co.uk/printer-test-images/

See also Keith's video about choosing the best papers for your printing
https://youtu.be/qubh3MiShk8
There is much more in the 'Choosing the best paper' article at http://www.northlight-images.co.uk/choosing-the-best-paper-for-your-photo-prints/