Your camera roll is absolutely bursting with great photos, and you’re totally ready to print all your favourites.
There’s just one small problem: you’re not entirely sure whether you should choose a glossy or matte photo finish.
The finish you choose will have a huge impact on the appearance of your photos, but there isn’t really a clear choice between the two. Each has its own advantages, drawbacks, and unique characteristics, so it all comes down to personal preference and how you plan to use your photo prints.
Since this is never an easy choice to make, this quick guide covers all the main differences to help you choose between glossy vs matte prints for your own amazing photos.
Glossy vs matte photos - the main differences at a glance
There’s quite a bit of information to take in here, so we’ve compiled all the main differences between glossy vs matte photos in this handy list (perfect for anyone in a rush!).
1. Glossy photos offer more vibrant colours, while matte photos have a softer, more subtle aesthetic.
2. Matte photos have far less reflective glare than glossy photos, so they’re easier to view clearly from various angles.
3. Glossy photos bring out sharper details in your picture, as they offer a stronger contrast than matte finishes.
4. Glossy photos are more likely to show fingerprints and smudges, as matte photos are better at masking any marks or scratches.
5. Matte photos are printed on textured paper, while glossy photos are printed on smoother, shinier paper.
What’s a glossy photo finish?
Glossy photo prints have a shiny finish that brings pictures to life in vibrant colour and sharp detail. Printed on smooth glossy photo paper, they feature a reflective coating that enhances colour saturation and ensures your photo is as eye-catching as possible.
Benefits of glossy photos
- Vibrant colours make photos look livelier
- Outstanding sharpness and detail
- A more polished appearance
- Reflective coating enhances depth
Drawbacks of glossy photos
- More likely to show fingerprint marks and smudges
- Reflective glare can make them hard to see at certain angles
- Must be displayed in perfect lighting conditions to minimise glare
When to choose glossy photo prints
Glossy prints are perfect for any photos that feature bold, contrasting colours, or any other photos you want to add some extra shine to. Whether you’re printing wedding photos or your camera roll favourites, glossy photos are the best choice if you really want your photos to pop and get the attention they deserve.
What’s a matte photo finish?
Matte photo prints offer a more subtle and muted finish that gives photos a softer, warmer tone. Printed on paper with a rougher texture, matte photos have a non-reflective coating that reduces glare to make your photos appear more understated, elegant and professional.
Benefits of matte photos
- Significantly reduces glare
- Textured finish masks fingerprint marks and smudges
- A softer, more elegant look
- Easier to display in bright spaces or behind glass
Drawbacks of matte photos
- Reduced colour saturation
- Less vibrant appearance
- Reduced sharpness and detail
When to choose matte photo prints
Since they have a non-reflective finish, matte photos are perfect for displaying in areas with bright lighting conditions or viewing up close. They’re also the perfect choice if you plan to handle your photos regularly, as they won’t be ruined by smudgy fingerprints.
Glossy or matte photo prints - which is right for you?
The choice between glossy vs matte prints depends on the photos you’re printing and how you plan to use them. It all comes down to your personal preference, but here are the 3 main things you’ll have to consider when choosing glossy or matte photos.
1. Where will you display your photos?
Matte photos are the best choice if you’re planning to display your photos somewhere with bright lighting, since the reduced glare makes them easier to view at various angles. They feel warmer and cosier, too, so they’re a great choice for framing at home.
Glossy photos, on the other hand, offer brighter, more vibrant colour, so they’re a great option if your photos will be displayed in a poorly lit area instead. They’re also the more popular choice for showcasing professional artwork and photography in exhibitions, as the vibrant colours are more likely to grab attention.
2. How will you view your photos?
Matte photos are a great choice if you’re viewing photos up close or will be handling your prints regularly, as glossy photos are more likely to collect smudgy fingerprints.
Glossy prints are more vibrant and polished, so they’re ideal for viewing from a distance, and they’re also the best choice if you want your photos to be as colourful and detailed as possible.
3. What’s the subject of your photos?
The mood and aesthetic of your photos is also a really big factor here.
When you’re printing a happy family memory, you’ll probably want to capture as much colour and detail as possible, which means glossy prints will be the best choice for you. Alternatively, if you’re printing a beautiful landscape, then the more subtle and natural feel of matte photo prints may be the perfect way to bring it all to life.
Photos which have lots of bold and bright colours will also suit the shininess of glossy prints, while the subtle feel of matte prints is a fantastic option for any black-and-white photos.
Print glossy or matte photos with Snappy Snaps
Only you will know whether glossy or matte prints are best for your unique photos. Glossy prints are the best choice if you prioritise vibrant colours and sharp details, but then matte prints are perfect if you want to avoid reflective glare and prefer more neutral and natural tones.
Whatever you choose, you can print your own amazing glossy or matte photos with us here at Snappy Snaps. You’ll always get crisp, high-quality prints that bring your favourite photos to life - even if you’re still undecided between glossy vs matte photos, you can just order some of each to see which you prefer!