Photo printing on matte and glossy paper: what's the difference?

Any photo paper is a delicate material that requires careful handling. Keep a paper should be protected from moisture and direct sunlight. In the paper, is laid on one sheet. Compliance with all these requirements, you will be pleased with the result.

Choosing the right paper for printing photos

Special paper for printing photos consists of several layers, each of which performs a specific function. One layer prevents the flow of ink and deformation of the foundations, the second is responsible for the fixation of dyes, the third protects from external influences. Layers must be at least three, but the more, the better and more expensive paper. In addition, there are differences in the method of applying the print. To get a good quality photo, you need to choose the right type of paper.

Than glossy paper different from matte

There are three main types of cover paper: glossy (Glossy), semi-gloss (Semi-gloss) and matte (Matte). Glossy types of paper, in turn, are divided into semi-gloss (semigloss), glossy (gloss), super-gloss (supergloss). In addition, there is a paper with an intermediate gloss level. This unit does not mean that one paper is better than another. In fact, every kind of paper designed for different purposes, they cannot replace each other and have no separation in quality.

The glossy finish provides the opportunity to make the photo more bright, juicy and shiny, giving the shades of saturation. Gloss plus can help protect the picture from moisture. But this coverage has a significant disadvantage – the glossy photos are not suitable for frequent viewing, as they are easily damaged and they are very visible fingerprints. The perfect way to keep the glossy images for a long time is to put them in an album or frame.

Moreover, if the print was made using pigment ink on a regular glossy paper, high-quality photos will not work. In this case, the pattern can be erased by the touch of the hand, this makes the paper unsuitable for printers of this type, they need a super-gloss paper with a microporous coating, i.e. a layer which prevents a physical damage shot.

Matte paper is devoid of such disadvantage. It is much better conveys the subtleties and fine details of the picture. Emerging over time scratches and damage on matte paper are less visible than on glossy. But keep in mind that pictures taken on matte paper look more pale and not so bright.

Paper with a matte finish has a dull surface that can be smooth or textured. A similar coating is made of oxides of aluminium or silicon, it contributes to light scattering, a wide range of colors and good ink absorption. Pictures on matte paper is more resistant to fading.