Photo gloss paper prints

Why gloss looks so strong.

A smooth surface reflects light in one direction, so from most viewing angles very little stray light reaches your eye from the dark parts of the image. Shadows stay deep and contrast seems higher. Rough or matt surfaces scatter a little light everywhere, which lifts the blacks slightly. The ink may be the same; the surface is what changes.

That makes gloss a good fit for product shots, food, cars, bold graphics and any poster that needs to grab attention from across a shop. It also suits a print that will be viewed head-on in controlled light. At poster sizes the effect carries a long way, which is why gloss is so common in shop displays.

Where gloss jobs go wrong

• Hanging it opposite a window. The print becomes a dull mirror of the street. Before ordering, hold up a shiny magazine cover at the same spot on the wall and see what it reflects.
• Framing it hard against glass. A glossy surface can stick to glazing, particularly in a warm or humid room, and leave blotchy patches. Always leave a gap with a mount or spacer. Our page on framing large prints explains the options.
• Handling without care. Fingerprints and hairline scratches show easily, and large areas of dark colour show them most. Lift big sheets by opposite edges, with clean hands or gloves.
• Rolling it print-side in. A tight curl can leave a mark on a shiny face. Roll loosely around a wide tube and let the sheet relax before you hang it.
• Choosing it for text-heavy panels. Someone reading a long panel will have to shift about to dodge the reflections. Photo matt is far kinder to readers.

Adding protection

A print in a corridor or shop will get knocked. Mounting on board keeps it flat, which matters more for gloss than for other papers, since any ripple is picked out by reflections. A laminate adds a tougher skin. See gloss or matt lamination for how each one changes the look.

Guide prices from our price list. They exclude VAT and delivery and assume print-ready artwork.