Here is a detailed explanation of the different paper finishes available through my professional photography labs.
Remember that the 3 paper print choices listed below: Glossy, Lustre and Metallic, need to be matted and framed before they can be hung on a wall, as they come as a print only. This gives you a lot of presentation options and allows you to choose exactly how you want it presented for your home or office.
However, if you want a print that comes to you ready to hang with no further fuss or expense, then opt for a Canvas Gallery Wrap.
I hope this page helps with your decision on which print finish to opt for. However, if you do need more help, please contact me by clicking "Contact" in the menu.
Glossy photos are printed on coated paper with a very smooth, shiny reflective surface. Glossy finishes have a high-contrast appearance and look slick to the touch when not under glass. This finish has an excellent dynamic range and color. Photos will have a shiny finish. Colors are vibrant. Images are crisp and sharp.
Lustre paper has a slight gloss with a subtle, often pearl-like texture. Fingerprints and smudges are not as visible.
Metallic paper is extremely durable and produces an almost chrome-like burnished appearance; photographers have described the look as “chrome on paper.” The glossy finish and metallic look of this paper will enable you to create prints with exceptional visual interest and depth. The proprietary laminate layers also increase the durability and tear resistance of the final print, increasing the opportunities for display applications. Striking, distinctive, eye-catching metallic look Increased color gamut for rich impact and intense blacks to enhance print appeal Exceptional sharpness, brightness, and color saturation.
Canvas gallery wraps are printed on high quality, heavyweight canvas and then coated to protect the surface from scratches and light (however, like all prints, you should never allow direct sunlight to hit it). Your canvas is then stretched over sturdy wood frames and arrives ready to display right out of the box! Note: you will lose all 4 edges of the print as they are wrapped around the frame (approx. 2 inches or 5 cm on each side), so please make sure the print you choose has elements along all of the edges that you don't mind being hidden along the sides of the print.