Glossy vs Matte Photo Paper

Which Finish is Best for Framing?

You�ve captured the perfect moment, fine-tuned the edit, and now it�s time to print and frame. But one last choice stands between you and a stunning wall display: Glossy or Matte?

It might feel like a small aesthetic decision, but the paper finish dramatically affects how your photo looks once framed�colour intensity, sharpness, glare, fingerprints, and even long-term preservation. At EasyFrame, we handle thousands of prints every month, and we�ve seen glossy vibrancy ruined by bad lighting and matte subtlety elevated by the right frame.

This guide helps you choose the best finish for your image and your custom frame.

The Quick Answer

Glossy: Shiny, reflective coating → colours pop, deep blacks, high contrast. Great for vibrant shots, but prone to glare and fingerprints.

Matte: Flat, non-reflective → no glare, professional look, easier to view anywhere. Safer for direct-to-glass framing (no sticking risk). Best framing tip: Always use a mount with glossy prints to prevent Newton's Rings and damage.

The Glossy Finish: High Impact, High Shine

Glossy is the classic �photo look� � what most high-street labs default to.

Pros

Vibrancy: Ink sits on the surface → ultra-saturated, punchy colours.
Contrast: Deepest blacks for crisp, sharp results.
Detail: Smooth surface makes fine elements pop.

Cons

Glare: Reflections can hide the image in bright rooms.
Fingerprints & Dust: Shows every mark � hard to clean without risk.

Best for: High-contrast landscapes, vibrant holiday shots, colourful digital art.

The Matte Finish: Subtle & Professional

Preferred by galleries, fine-art photographers, and anyone wanting a refined look.

Pros

No Glare: Textured surface scatters light → clear view from any angle.
Artistic Feel: Sophisticated, tactile, gallery-quality aesthetic.
Forgiving: Hides fingerprints, dust, and minor imperfections.

Cons

Muted Colours: Ink absorbs into fibres → slightly softer saturation.
Lower Contrast: Blacks can appear greyer, image feels �softer�.

Best for: Black & white photography, portraits, vintage/sepia images, large prints in bright rooms.

The Framing Factor: Why It Matters

Avoiding �Newton�s Rings� with Glossy Prints

Placing a glossy photo directly against glass traps moisture and air → creates rainbow-like oily patches (Newton�s Rings). Over time, the coating can even fuse to the glass, ruining the print when removed.

Solution: Always add a picture mount (1.4 mm+ thick) as a spacer. This keeps the print safe and professional-looking.

Glare Double Trouble

Glossy print + standard glass = mirror on mirror. Upgrade your glazing for the win:

Non-Reflective Glass � Diffuses light, reduces glare (slight softening of detail).
Art-Glass (UV Anti-Reflective) � Premium, near-invisible clarity with almost zero reflection. Lets glossy vibrancy shine.

The Middle Ground: Luster / Satin / Pearl

Can�t decide? Luster offers a subtle sheen with pebbled texture � the �Goldilocks� finish.

Excellent colour saturation (near glossy)
Breaks up reflections (near matte)
Fingerprint-resistant and professional behind glass

Summary Checklist: Which Finish Should You Choose?

Choose Glossy if�

Rich, bright colours (flowers, sunsets, beaches)
You want maximum sharpness & detail
You�ll frame with a mount

Choose Matte if�

Black & white or subtle tones
Hung in bright rooms with windows/lights
Framing edge-to-edge (no mount)
Gallery/fine-art aesthetic

Final Thoughts

Your frame should celebrate your photo, not compete with it. The right finish + smart framing choices (mounts, specialist glazing) make all the difference.

Already printed on glossy? No stress � use our Mount Designer to add protection and elegance, or browse our Custom Frames and select anti-reflective glazing from the start.

Need help choosing the perfect frame?

EasyFrame specialises in custom solutions for every style and budget. Our team is happy to advise � even if you�re just browsing.

Call: 01234 856 501
Email: sales@easyframe.co.uk

Article Posted: 27/01/2026 10:01:47