Luster Photo Paper Guide
Image by Ondřej Šponiar from Pixabay
The luster photo paper finish has been a long time favorite among photographers and print studios. It’s a unique type of paper in between a high-gloss and matte finish. The luster paper has several names. It is also called a satin finish, pearl, or semi-gloss. Although it has many different names, they all refer to a specific type of coating. To really understand what a luster paper looks and feels like, think about those classic photo lab prints.
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The surface is subtle and has a slight sheen to it. You can probably find some luster photos in your family album, as this type of finish was (and still is) very popular for the past three decades.
This article explains what a luster photo paper is, when to use it, and why it’s such a popular choice.
What is a luster finish?
The satin or luster finish is called “E-Surface” in the photography industry. It refers to a standard photographic finish. This type of paper has an allover surface texture. It presents accurate colors and tones and natural, lifelike skin, and it makes photos look realistic.
Here’s an example of luster photos as they are printed:
The luster finish has a satin texture. It is soft and smooth, but not as shiny as a glossy photo paper. Compared to a matte paper, it has a sheen to it and feels different to the touch.
The luster finish is more similar to a glossy finish than its matte counterpart. It has a resin coating, which is also known as a photobase. Depending on what angle you look at it from, this finish can look like the surface of a freshly painted car.
Most photographers describe the luster finish as paper with a ‘traditional’ look. It’s better for handling because fingerprint marks are less visible than on glossy surfaces. Overall, the luster finish makes the subject of the photo look natural and lifelike, which is the main reason this finish is the most popular.
Characteristics of a Luster Finish
Luster photo papers are great because they reduce glare while retaining most of the D-Max, so they are suited for all printing types.
Here are the main characteristics of a satin finish:
Suitable for handling:
While it’s not as fingerprint-proof as a classic matte photo paper, the luster finish is quite resistant to smudges and finger marks. It can also handle small scratches and wear and tear from frequent handling. So, you can place this type of photo paper in your family albums, scrapbooks, and picture frames.
Low Glare:
As with glossy paper, the luster finish is susceptible to glare, depending on the light conditions. That’s why the paper is often referred to as semi-gloss. However, the glare is very low, so it’s not a major problem.
There is also less shine, so it’s easier to see the photo from all angles. Therefore, the images are clear, sharp, and the colors are true to life. Because of the low glare factor, you can place this type of photo paper in frames on the wall in most lighting conditions.
Great tonality and color:
This paper produces high-quality, vivid colors that are almost identical to the colors on your camera. The satin finish is a great canvas for black and white tones, which appear to have a smooth tonality and perfect contrast. You’ll notice that your images have a soft glow when you use this finish, which is best described as a pearly aesthetic.
Professional paper:
Most photographers and studios choose a luster finish paper because it is considered ‘professional.’ It’s often used by artists and photographers who display their images in galleries. The main reason for the paper’s professional reputation is because it has been used as the go-to photo lab paper for many decades.
When to use a luster finish
A luster finish works for almost all types of photos.
Check out these prints:
We recommend using a luster finish for your portraits, landscapes, and wedding photos. Since luster paper is budget-friendly, you can always print many photos to send to clients, friends, family, or keep for yourself.
As well, black and white photos look amazing when printed on a luster finish. This is because the paper brings out the right amount of contrast. In addition, the grainy texture of the paper makes the details pop.
But, unlike with glossy paper, you can print any kind of image you like on luster paper. The best photos are going to be prints sized 8×10” or smaller. When you frame a smaller photo, it’s easy to position the print in a way that eliminates glare. As people walk by the picture, they can see it from all angles without reflections and glare.
There is no type of image that looks particularly bad on a luster finish. But, keep in mind that if you plan to scan images, a gloss finish will look better overall. The slightly matte effect of the satin paper produces a visible texture.
Framing and Display
The luster finish is especially ideal for framing. If you are creating an at-home gallery wall, you can confidently place your luster paper photos in glass frames. There is no need to worry about any glare because the luster finish is not as reflective as the glossy surface.
Satin photos look great from any angle, so you can use a luster finish to showcase your work in a gallery too. If you are worried about people touching the photos, you need to know that most of the smudges, minor scratches, and fingerprints are not visible on a satin surface.
If you want to display luster photos without glass frames, you can also add a special coating treatment called a lamination film.
Conclusion
Photo by Clarisse Meyer on Unsplash
Luster paper is considered the best value when it comes to cost and quality. The images you print on luster paper have great color, tone, and contrast. But, the colors are less bright. However, if you know that you want a fade-resistant paper that will last you for many years to come, then choose a satin finish for your next photo prints.
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