Key Difference – Lustre vs Glossy
You are sometimes surprised to see your own image in photos if there is a difference in the finish of the two batches of photos. This difference is striking when one batch has been done in Lustre finish while the other is completed on a glossy finish. People often confuse between the two types of finishes because of some of their similarities. However, there are also differences that should be kept in mind while ordering a reproduction of photos from negatives from a digital photographic service.
What is Lustre?
Lustre finish is glossy, but it also has a special texture that qualifies it to be called Lustre. This texture reminds one of the surface feel of a natural pearl. If you want to give this subtle texture to your photos, do not forget to order this finish. You get what can be roughly classified as an in between of the glossy and matte position. This is because you get the best of the two worlds, both the shininess of the glossy paper, as well as slight roughness of the matte paper. There is much less glare in Lustre making it suitable for framing your photos and hanging them in a room. There is a great color saturation, and the contrast is also high. What is great is that this finish does not allow fingerprints easily as it resists smudges.
What is Glossy?
As the name implies, go for glossy if you want great shine on your photos. This is a finish that gives a lot of sheen on a smooth paper that is without any texture. Glossy finish is capable of very sharp images that have vibrant colors. However, you have to be prepared to clear the smudges that become visible whenever someone holds the photo in his hands. This is because glossy finish does not resist fingerprints. However, the smudge marks can be removed using a piece of cotton or cloth. This is a paper that has a coating that causes the light to be reflected, producing a shiny image.
What is the difference between Lustre and Glossy?
Definitions of Lustre and Glossy:
Lustre: Lustre finish is glossy, but it also has a special texture that qualifies it to be called Lustre.
Glossy: Glossy is a finish that gives a lot of sheen on a smooth paper that is without any texture.
Characteristics of Lustre and Glossy:
Finish:
Lustre: Lustre is only slightly shiny.
Glossy: Glossy is a very shiny finish.
Texture:
Lustre: Lustre has a special texture that resembles the surface of a pearl.
Glossy: Glossy has no texture and is very smooth.
Photos:
Lustre: Lustre is anti-glare making it ideal for framing photos.
Glossy: Glossy produces glare when watching the photos at certain angles.
Fingerprints:
Lustre: Lustre resists fingerprints..
Glossy: Finger marks are easily visible on glossy.
Image Courtesy:
1. Bardo lustre By The original uploader was Profburp at French Wikipedia [CC BY-SA 2.5], via Wikimedia Commons
2. Iris Glossy Starling – side color By Doug Janson (Own work) [CC BY-SA 3.0 or GFDL], via Wikimedia Commons
