When it comes to printing your photos, one of the first choices you’ll need to make is which finish to use. Lustre prints and Glossy prints are two of the most popular options, but each offers unique qualities that affect how your images look and feel. In this guide, we’ll explore the differences between these two finishes so you can decide which is best for your next project.
Lustre Prints: The Semi-Gloss Finish for Soft, Professional Results
Lustre Prints are printed on Fuji Crystal Archive Digital Paper Type DPII Lustre photo paper and strike the perfect balance between matte and glossy. They feature a soft sheen that reduces glare while still keeping colors rich and vibrant. The subtle texture of lustre paper helps to mask fingerprints and minor imperfections, making it a go-to choice for professional photographers. That’s why you’ll often find it used in wedding albums and portrait sessions—where timeless, true-to-life results matter most.
Glossy Prints: A High Gloss Finish for Sharp and Vibrant Results
Glossy Prints are printed on Fujicolor Crystal Archive Super Type CN Glossy photo paper and are known for their dazzling shine and bold appearance. By reflecting light directly, they deliver crisp clarity, deep contrast, and vibrant colors. This finish is one of the most popular choices for everyday prints, portraits, and travel photography because it brings every detail to life with sharp precision. Whether displayed in an album or framed on your wall, glossy prints stand out with their eye-catching look.
The Advantages of Choosing Lustre Prints
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Reduced Glare – Colors remain visible from multiple angles without distracting reflections, perfect for prints displayed under varied lighting.
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Subtle Tones – The softer finish makes lustre a versatile choice for all types of photos, from portraits to landscapes.
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Accurate Colors – Lustre captures natural tones, like skin tones, true to what you see in real life.
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Fingerprint Resistant – Ideal for Photo Books and Photo Albums that will be handled frequently without worrying about smudges.
The Advantages of Choosing Glossy Prints
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Eye-Catching – The shiny, reflective surface is more likely to grab attention, making it great for display pieces.
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Vivid Colors – The finish enhances brightness, giving photos a bold and dramatic look.
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Sharp Image – Every detail stands out with sharp edges and crisp clarity.
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High Contrast – Perfect for making images pop, especially with rich blacks and bright highlights.
Lustre Prints vs Glossy: A Comparison of the Key Differences
If you’re still undecided, here’s a quick look at the main differences between Lustre and Glossy finishes. For sizing details, check out our print size guide.
Lustre Prints |
Glossy Prints |
|
|---|---|---|
| Reflectiveness | Minimal glare, viewable from all angles | High glare in bright light |
| Color | Subtle tones and more accurate colors | Vibrant, high contrast colors making images pop |
| Sharpness | Softer, textured finish | Sharper details and crisp clarity |
| Handling | Fingerprint-resistant and smudge-proof | Prone to fingerprints, scratches, and smudges |
| Sizes | See available sizes | See available sizes |
How to Choose Between Lustre or Glossy Prints
Ultimately, the best finish depends on your project. Wedding and portrait photographers often prefer Wedding Prints in Lustre for their soft tones and natural skin color reproduction. Glossy, on the other hand, shines with vibrant landscapes, travel photography, and high-impact display images.
Pro tips for photographers:
- - Frame Glossy Prints behind non-reflective glass to reduce glare.
- - Choose Lustre Prints if your images will be displayed in different lighting conditions, as the finish minimizes reflections.
Other factors to consider include handling and storage. Lustre holds up better for prints that will be touched often, while Glossy looks its best when framed and protected. Whichever you choose, remember to care for your prints by keeping them out of direct sunlight and storing them properly for lasting quality.
For more guidance, explore our Professional Photo Prints and check out our Image Resolution Guide to make sure your images are ready for print.
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