What is the Difference Between Lustre and Matte?

The main difference between lustre and matte is the texture and appearance of the photo prints. Here are the key differences:

• Lustre: Lustre finish is a hybrid of glossy and matte prints, providing benefits of both styles. It delivers bright colors, sharp details, and rich color saturation, without being as shiny as glossy paper. Lustre has a slight gloss and is closer to a matte finish than glossy paper. It is a popular choice among photographers for portrait and wedding photos due to its vivid colors and professional appearance.
• Matte: Matte finish does not have a glossy texture, making it a better option for black and white photos. Matte is more resistant to fingerprints and is suitable for photos that will be handled frequently. However, it is not as detailed as lustre finish, which may result in the loss of some finer details in the image.

Both lustre and matte finishes are non-reflective, making them suitable for displaying under glass or in bright rooms. While lustre is considered more professional due to its vivid colors and sharp details, matte can be a better choice for black and white photos or when the prints need to be handled often. Ultimately, the choice between lustre and matte depends on your personal preference and the specific requirements of the photo you are printing.

Comparative Table: Lustre vs Matte

Here is a table comparing the differences between lustre and matte photo prints:

In summary, lustre prints offer a balance between the vibrant colors of glossy prints and the subdued tones of matte prints while having a subtle texture. They are often used for professional prints, portraiture, and wedding photos. On the other hand, matte prints have a smooth surface, are non-reflective, and provide excellent color purity and detail, making them ideal for photo albums, frames, and fine art pieces.