Photo Contest: Better to use Gloss or Matte Finish?

Question

I am entering a photo contest that requires a color print of the digital photo. I have a few to use, but where I get them processed has two options: gloss or matte finish.

1) Which is more professional looking, and will yield the best result? I am under the impression that professionals will be reviewing the pictures.

2) Second, the maximum required size given by the contest is 9 x 12". Is 8x10 the best size, or is it overkill?
Thank you for any advice.

The camera used is a prosumer 7 megapixel, and the picture itself is of a coastal scene in Hawaii. The foreground is very sharp, and there are lots of turquoise/blue colors contrasting against the brown shoreline.

Basically, when the judges open my photo, I was them to say 'wow'.

I have read that matte gives a 'softer' image overall...yet gloss often reflects interior lights too much.

Answer 1

i would do 9X12 so they can see everything they want. matte is usually what professionals use for their work. glossy prints are usually what is used by "common folk" for every day printing of smaller pictures.

if you aren't too sure with all these opposing answers, why not get it printed in both. see which you like better and/or what other people are submitting. you can always keep the extra for something else.

Answer 2

1

Answer 3

Really speaking, it's your choice. It also depends on the subject matter. But Bowl 'o' knowledge has it exactly backwards when he says: "Second reason is because in a matte print the lack of an extra coating lets you see detail better." The fact is that the surface texture in a matte paper HIDES and SOFTENS detail whereas the glass-smooth finish in glossy BRINGS OUT every tiny bit of detail you have. The physics behind this is that there is no SUPERIMPOSED pattern between your eye and the picture in a glossy photo. However, because it is mirror-like, some people think it is hiding detail when all they need to do is to look at it from a slightly different angle.

That is one reason why scientific and technical photographs (including electron micrographs) are ALWAYS printed on glossy paper, the second being that the printer wants them that way. Again, he wants them glossy so that the matte surface does not interfere with the pictorial detail while making the block-which is the same as the first reason, really.

Answer 4

8x10 is a good standard.

Gloss can look more professional and really shine. However, some photo contests are particular about glare. Gloss produces unwanted glares of light. Matte does not. I think Matte can be very classy too.

I've always been told that its easier to make a nice glossy print and more of a challenge to make a striking matte print. But if you do, the results are amazing!

Answer 5

1) I think matte is generally more professional looking. One reason is because most consumer printers (costco, ritz, etc.) print glossy so they automatically look less professional. Second reason is because in a matte print the lack of an extra coating lets you see detail better.
2) I think 8x10 is fine to use, I'm sure most people will do that size. Keep in mind that if you are using an SLR the print will be cropped (smaller) than the image you have. A size like 8x12 will not crop anything.

Good luck in the contest!

Answer 6

I worked developing photos for almost 5 years at a Ritz Camera store and currently shoot weddings. Matte finish diffuses a photo like you said, so it is ideal for portraits where you want any blemishes masked. Glossy brings out color. Alot has to do with the developing - make sure you go through a place that custom prints. Good luck!

Answer 7

I've been using Epson "Premium Luster Photo Paper" for special photographs. It's kind of half-way between matte and glossy. I'd say it's a textured glossy paper that has a fine dimpling to the surface. It shows colors well, but does not have any smooth, flat areas that would cause glare.

Here's Epson's sales pitch:

"Wedding, portrait and school photographers have traditionally used luster paper for their photos. Now Epson offers this popular surface paper, Premium Luster Photo Paper, to digital printmakers. This instant drying paper produces vivid, lifelike images that rival those of traditional silver halide prints. Premium Luster Photo Paper delivers highly saturated prints by offering maximum ink coverage and a high D-Max for true photographic reproductions. Its 10-mil RC base gives prints a photographic feel, and keeps the paper cockle-free."

Answer 8

I'd go for matte.

And 8 x 10 is perfect. If you have several photos, keep them all the same size except one -- make that one 3 x 5. Just to prove you are an artist and directed them at what you want them to see.

luck!

Answer 9

Gloss finish is the best, as the colors and the image are much clearer than with matte finish.

As for the size, if it's anything like when I enter a contest with a painting, IF YOU DON'T HAVE THE CORRECT SIZE, YOU'LL BE DISQUALIFIED.

If they say the maximum size is 9 x 12, go with the maximum size. It's not overkill. It'll be much easier to judge and I always go with the biggest size possible.... and yes, I've won quite a few contests.... Best of luck to you.... and how about telling us where we can go see you picture???

Answer 10

Tex
1) I would go with the matte finish if your subject has many details or a close-up shot.

2) It really depends on the size of your subject or the number. Generally speaking, if you have a bad photo, no size will help! If you have a good photograph you could probably wipe the judges off there feet with an 4x6. Its really up to you. Just my opinion!

Good luck!