Understanding Finishing Options - Professional Photo Prints

Professional Photo Prints are loose prints made on photographic papers. Choose the paper by its sheen, contrast, and the light where the photo will be viewed. Then decide whether the image should reach the paper edge or have a white border.

Compare the four photo papers

• Luster: a soft sheen with less glare than glossy. A useful starting point for portraits and general photography.
• Glossy: a smooth, high-shine surface for vivid color and strong contrast.
• Metallic Glossy: a reflective, pearlescent look that can make highlights and metallic subjects feel more dimensional.
• Photo Matt Fibre: a smooth, non-reflective surface for a quieter look, including portraits and black-and-white photographs.

See the surface comparisons on the Professional Photo Prints page. For a physical comparison, request a media sample set.

Choose the border and display method

Borderless places the image at the print edge. A white border can provide handling or signing space and help with matting. Review the selected size and final crop in the order preview. The print border guide covers the border choices in more detail.

A Photo Print arrives as a loose paper print. If you need a rigid print for a display, choose Mounted Prints. For a fine art paper texture or a glossy baryta surface, compare Giclée Fine Art Prints.

Before you order

1. Pick the surface that suits the image and viewing light. Glossy surfaces show more reflections; matte surfaces show fewer.
2. Confirm size, crop, and border in the preview, especially if the print must fit a frame or mat.
3. For a larger run or an important photograph, consider a Test Print on the chosen paper.

Need help choosing? Contact our team with your photo, planned display, and desired size.