I would have never thought to use photo paper for anything other than printing photos. Any benefits that might not be obvious?

Yes, but I think mostly because it’s split and tented more than having a columnar stagger. I’m currently using a Sofle rgb v2.1. Using a vertical mouse also saved my right elbow. Whenever I travel for work and use my laptop’s keyboard, I have to take long breaks every 90 minutes because my joints flare up that quickly.

As long as your definition of keeping those things private includes heterosexual couples holding hands, giving each other a kiss, or showing off their pregnancy or kids.