Paper guide
Matte vs. Lustre Photo Paper: Which Is Better?
Matte paper is quiet and low-reflection; lustre paper adds a little more color and contrast while keeping glare lower than high-gloss paper. Choose based on the image and the wall light.
01
Choose matte for soft, controlled viewing
Matte works well for illustrations, black-and-white photography, portraits and rooms with windows or lamps facing the wall. It reduces surface glare and keeps the presentation calm behind glazing.
The trade-off is that colors may feel less punchy than on a lustre surface. That can be a benefit when the frame, mat and room should remain visually quiet.
02
Choose lustre for color and texture balance
Lustre or satin surfaces add a gentle sheen that can give portraits and colorful photography more depth. They are often easier to live with than glossy paper in a room where reflections move throughout the day.
Order or inspect a sample when the surface decision affects a whole collection. A screen cannot show paper texture or reflection behavior accurately.
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Put the advice into a real frame.
Upload your picture, compare frame profiles and mats, and check the finished proportions before you commit.
Open the frame builderCommon questions
Is matte or lustre better for framed photos?
Matte is a strong choice for low-reflection viewing; lustre is useful when you want more color and contrast without the glare of glossy paper.
Does a mat work with lustre paper?
Yes. A mat can separate the print from glazing and make the surface easier to view, regardless of whether the paper is matte or lustre.