Glossy vs. Matte Photo Prints: Which Finish Is Better?

Both finishes are true photographic prints on Fujicolor Crystal Archive paper, made by Fujifilm. The difference is the surface, which changes how the print looks in the hand and on the wall.

Glossy

• Brighter colors and deeper blacks, with a little more apparent sharpness.
• Reflects light, so it can show glare under bright lamps or behind glass.
• Shows fingerprints more easily.
• Best for colorful travel, party and nature photos, and prints that go in albums.

Matte

• A soft, low-glare surface that is easy to see from any angle.
• Hides fingerprints well, so it suits prints that get handed around.
• Colors are a touch softer, which flatters portraits and black-and-white photos.
• Best for framing, wall displays in bright rooms, and photos that will be handled.

Which should I choose?

If you are not sure, choose glossy for snapshots and albums, and matte for anything that will hang on a wall or go behind a frame.

Sizes and prices

Glossy and matte prints come in the same sizes and at the same price, from 4x6 ($0.29) up to 20x30 ($24.99). There is also a vintage border option and square sizes. Shop photo prints

Want something sturdier than paper? Compare canvas, acrylic and metal prints.