Matte photo paper is often used by professional photographers. The matte finish minimizes glare and accentuates the image texture.
What Is Matte Photo Paper?
There are two main types of photo paper- matte and glossy. They’re created using a similar process, but matte photo paper has fewer gloss coatings. This affects how shiny the image is.
Matte prints have quiet sophistication. The slightly muted appearance and lower level of contrast compared to glossy prints contribute to the classic look.
Reasons to Choose Matte Photo Prints
When you’re choosing paper for your next print project, there are multiple reasons why you might choose matte photo paper.
Anti-reflective
The shining colors associated with glossy prints are mesmerizing when you need to print a large, high-definition image. However, that glossy sheen becomes a problem when the print is placed under glass or right next to a light source. In those situations, you have to worry about glare. Matte is anti-reflective, so matte photo prints can easily be displayed in highly illuminated areas.
Perfect for framing
Matte photo prints are ideal for framing. Not only will they reflect less light, but they are also less likely to stick to the frame than glossy prints. This is a benefit when you change photos as a picture that’s stuck to the glass can easily be torn.
Smudge-resistant
The sticky coating that can make glossy photo prints cleave to glass also makes these prints harder to handle. Unsightly smudges can form every time your fingers smear the coating. In addition, the smooth surface of glossy prints makes them easier to scratch. Matte paper, by contrast, is full of small indentions. It’s both scratch-resistant and smudge-resistant. If your printed photos will be touched frequently, matte photo paper is a better choice.
Reasons Not to Choose Matte Photo Prints
Matte photo prints are not appropriate for every situation.
Reduced Clarity
A matte finish reduces sharpness, so it’s not a good idea for HD images.
Less Vibrant Colors
The colors in matte photos are less vibrant. Images with bright colors that pop off the page will appear more dynamic as glossy photo prints.
If you have images that will benefit from a matte photo finish, contact Duggal today.