Matte vs Glossy? Your input
Dec 31, 2013 11:39:54 #
Dec 31, 2013 11:41:18 #
Dec 31, 2013 11:47:27 #
I print about 90% of my images on Exhibition Luster or Pearl paper. As most of my photos are sold framed under a non-glare museum glass, I prefer to avoid introducing glare back into the equation by using a high gloss paper, hence, the luster or Pearl papers. In a few cases, however, I have gone to a rag matte paper where I want a bit more of the soft texture of the paper to show and to help with the mood of the image. Currently, I have only two images that I print and sell on a metallic gloss paper.
Dec 31, 2013 12:07:52 #
Depends on the image. Glossy inkjet papers will give you bolder colors, deeper blacks and more fine detail. It makes for a somewhat "harder" look than a matte paper. As Jim said, the paper can affect the mood of the image.
For example, I have a print of a red rock formation at Arches National Park. It's a "hard" image by it's very nature and it looks great on glossy paper. It's framed behind non-glare glass and the glossiness of the paper really doesn't show -- you don't see reflections off the surface of the paper.
I've occasionally tried printing the same image on more than one paper type and some look better on glossy paper and some better on matte and a lot look best on luster.
For example, I have a print of a red rock formation at Arches National Park. It's a "hard" image by it's very nature and it looks great on glossy paper. It's framed behind non-glare glass and the glossiness of the paper really doesn't show -- you don't see reflections off the surface of the paper.
I've occasionally tried printing the same image on more than one paper type and some look better on glossy paper and some better on matte and a lot look best on luster.
Dec 31, 2013 12:09:38 #
I use glossy on most of my shots but if I'm going to put the photo in a glass frame I use matt. If you have to frame a glossy picture in a glass frame, I found if you sprinkle talcome powder on the photo then wipe it with a soft cloth you will ellimate those ugly newton rings. :-)
Dec 31, 2013 12:12:32 #
My choice for something that I'm going to frame and hang in my home is matte. Have been using Epson Ultra Premium Presentation Paper MATTE which I like for its bright whites, dark blacks and vibrant colors. If I'm doing work for a customer, I would let them select the finish.
Dec 31, 2013 13:04:48 #
RRS
Loc: Not sure
lifenprism wrote:
Just taking a poll and survey says.......
I always use matte or canvas for large prints. However for competition in state conventions I'd always use glossy as that is what most require for judging . If the prints are going to be handled the problem with glossy is fingerprints and glare too. As has been already said it depends on what you are doing too, your sharpest rendition would be with glossy. That's why I used a soft filter while photographing people with a "Hass", too sharp.
Dec 31, 2013 13:49:58 #
I've never used glossy for Senior Portraits, always matte! It certainly makes a difference as to subject and what you are wanting to do with the print. Similar if you will as to how Metallic looks awesome on some photos, but not others.
Dec 31, 2013 13:54:02 #
Definitely matte but top grade paper.
lifenprism wrote:
Just taking a poll and survey says.......
Dec 31, 2013 14:32:32 #
Dec 31, 2013 15:16:29 #
lifenprism wrote:
Just taking a poll and survey says.......
Glossy for 4X6, 5X7, and 8X10 for an added WOW factor. If the 4X6s are going to be handled by a lot of people including kids with sticky fingers, matte is better.
Matte for 11X14 and larger, because size gives an "art" WOW factor instead, and matte keeps fingerprints off the larger and more expensive surface. They are more likely to be mounted behind glossy glass and a glossy print behind a glossy glass isn't as nice as a matte finish in that situation.
Dec 31, 2013 18:11:20 #
RON 11
Loc: Pittsburgh
I always print on Ilford Pearl. Soft gloss. Just enough gloss to add highlight.
Dec 31, 2013 18:47:06 #
lifenprism wrote:
Just taking a poll and survey says.......
Matte if its behind glass & even laminated, makes a difference to the appearance of the print, but other-wise gloss.
Dec 31, 2013 19:29:17 #
Dec 31, 2013 20:31:43 #
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