If you are an amateur photographer, how do you determine which type of photo paper to use when printing your photos at home? Some of the differences between glossy and non-glossy (also known as matte) photo paper may seem obvious. But, there are other less apparent differences to consider when choosing your paper.

Glossy paper is the type of photographic paper that we are used to seeing in modern times. Generally, this type of paper appears to be higher quality and creates photos that are more appealing to the eye. This is true for several reasons.

First, glossy paper has a shiny look to it while matte paper does not have a shiny surface. Second, glossy paper reflects light very well whereas non-glossy or matte photo paper does not reflect light. Third, glossy paper has vibrant color quality while colors appear dull on matte, or non-glossy, paper.

For the foregoing reasons, it is usually best to choose glossy paper for your projects. However, you should be aware that there are some drawbacks to using glossy paper. For example, photographs must be handled with care because sometimes dirt and fingerprints can accumulate on the surface. This is not the case with matte photo paper.

Another problem that can occur with glossy photos is that they can be difficult to view properly under strong light sources. On the other hand, photographs printed on matte paper are easy to see in nearly all light conditions.

One last consideration you should take into account is whether you are printing color or black and white photographs. Many times black and white photos look better on matte photo paper because the paper captures that old time feel.

Note that there is one other photo paper option available for your photographs. It is known as semi-gloss or satin finish photo paper. In many ways it provides the best of both worlds. The surface is not as shiny as glossy but isn’t as dull as matte paper. Colors are vibrant, rich, and very appealing to the eye. And, unlike the glossy finish, the semi-gloss paper is easier to see under strong light while having the advantage of not picking up as much dirt.

Once you have decided which brand of paper to use, you still have to make some other decisions about which type of photo paper is the best one.  This is because each brand has a variety of paper choices.  But, there’s really no need to make it a complicated decision.  The quickest and simplest method of choosing your paper is to match up the paper type to the ink type that you use in your printer.  So, for example, if you use DuraBrite ink in your Epson printer then you will likely want to choose DuraBrite photo paper for your project.

If you want photo paper for everyday use and you are not trying to create a quality framed piece of art then there are many low cost photo paper alternatives.  In this case, you won’t need to look for the manufacturer’s brand of paper.  You can choose just about any photo paper.  The cost per sheet will be lower which is great.  The trade off is that the print and color quality will also be lower.  However, if you don’t need high quality paper for your photos just look for any “photo paper” regardless of brand name.