Glossy photo paper has a reflective surface that can make colors look vivid, while matte paper has a low-glare finish that is often easier to view under bright lights.

What to know
For a frame behind glass, matte or luster finishes can reduce distracting reflections. Glossy can look crisp and punchy when carefully lit.

The frame glazing itself also matters; ordinary glass can reflect room lights even when the print underneath is matte.
Common mistake to avoid
Request a small test print if the picture has subtle shadows or skin tones, because paper surfaces and printers reproduce them differently.
Frequently asked question
Does matte mean lower quality?
No. The finish changes appearance, not automatically the resolution or quality of the image.

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