When it comes to laser engraving photos, certain types of wood yield better results than others due to their density, grain, and color. Here are some of the best options:

• Birch Plywood: Known for its smooth surface and light color, birch plywood provides excellent contrast for engravings. Its fine grain allows for detailed images and is a popular choice among engravers.
• Maple: With a tight, even grain, maple produces high-contrast images that are bright and clear. Its natural light color makes it suitable for detailed photo engravings.
• Cherry: Cherry wood offers a beautiful reddish hue that darkens with age. It engraves well, providing rich tones and excellent depth in photo renderings.
• Oak: While oak has a pronounced grain that can sometimes obscure fine details, it produces distinct contrast with certain laser settings, making it a good choice for more rustic designs.
• Mahogany: This hardwood is valued for its deep, reddish-brown color. It engraves beautifully and can bring warmth to photo engravings.

Ultimately, the best wood for laser engraving photos depends on the desired final appearance and the intricacy of the images being used.