Metallic prints

Subjects that come alive, and ones that struggle

Chrome, glass, water, night cityscapes and anything with hard highlights tend to respond beautifully, since the shimmer looks as if it belongs in the scene. Black and white work with strong contrast can also take on a silvery quality. Portraits are harder. Skin may look slightly cool or plastic, and pale, flat backgrounds pick up the sheen across their whole area, which can distract. Before ordering a big print, look at your image and ask whether its brightest parts should actually shine.

Paper base versus printing on metal

People use the word metallic for two different things. This page refers to photographic paper with a pearlescent coating, so the print is still paper and can be framed or mounted like one. Printing onto actual aluminium is a separate process with a different feel, and rigid metal panels fall under aluminium signs or other routes. Make sure you say which one you mean, particularly if a designer has specified the finish. For the wider range of surfaces, see our photo printing options, and ask what is currently available.

Light makes or breaks the effect

The sheen is directional, so the print changes as you walk past it. A spotlight at an angle brings it to life, while soft, flat light can leave it looking like an ordinary satin print. Whites never appear as a clean paper white, and they carry a slight warmth or grey sheen, so adjust expectations if you are used to standard stock. Glazing with heavy reflections hides much of the effect. Order a small test print first and try it in the place you plan to show it.

Related topics

• Panoramic prints
• Large prints for photographers
• Large photo paper prints