Archival Matte Paper Vs Glossy

Select archival quality paper such as a rag cotton paper.

Archival matte paper vs glossy.

Archival photo paper is a term used to define the longevity of a photograph or image on a photo paper. However the matte finish on photos does come with a hidden cost. Since glossy paper makes the colors of an image more vibrant this coating option works best for colored photo prints. Glossy photo paper is shinier this makes the color in your images pop on the sheet.

The extra shine works well on print files with heavy color coverage especially photographs and big graphics. The shine on glossy prints also adds a contemporary element to your photos so this finish is not recommended for vintage style photography such as images printed in black and white or sepia tones. This effect also makes. The images won t be quite as vibrant or colorful.

If you are looking for acid free archival paper for printing photographs art drawings and heirloom books we offer dozens of choices. Matte finish has a lot of texture on the surface so it won t pick up fingerprints as easily as glossy paper. Matte and gloss paper are coated sheets that appear smooth. Use of glossy paper with a dye based printer has the consequence of colors fading or shifting over time they are not archival quality so if you want the colors to last for decades.

Matte finish photos are useful for very small prints like the ones you keep in your wallet or passport photographs. Gloss left appears smoother and shinier than matte right.