Metallic and pearlescent photo papers give prints a luminous, almost three-dimensional quality, particularly with cars, jewellery, water, architecture and high-contrast black and white. Photographers choose them precisely for that sheen. Any coating has to be judged by one test above all: does the print still look metallic afterwards?
How the effect works
These papers usually have a reflective or pearlescent layer beneath an inkjet receiver coating. Light passes through the ink, reflects off that layer and comes back, which is what gives highlights their shimmer. A coating adds another layer on top. If it is clear and smooth, the effect may come through largely intact. If it diffuses light, as matt and some satin finishes do, it will dull the metallic look, sometimes dramatically.
Choosing the finish
- Gloss is usually the safest choice for keeping the metallic character.
- Semi-gloss or satin can soften glare while keeping some sheen. Test before committing.
- Matt generally works against the paper and is rarely what the customer wants.
ClearJet aerosols in gloss and semi-gloss can be handy for one-off exhibition prints. Our guide to choosing a finish goes into the trade-offs further.
Compatibility points
Metallic photo papers are mainly made for aqueous pigment and dye printers, and the receiver layers are generally similar in type to those on standard photo papers. That means the advice on our photo papers page applies, with two additions:
- Any unevenness in the coat shows more on a reflective surface. Streaks, orange peel and dust are all magnified. Coat in a clean space and keep the coat thin and even.
- Dense shadow areas, where ink load is highest, are where you are most likely to see a reaction, such as a change in density or bronzing. Include them in your test.
- Make sure the print is fully dry first. A coating over ink that is still settling can cloud the very areas that should shine.
Why coat at all?
Metallic prints are often displayed unframed or face-mounted at large sizes, where fingerprints and scuffs are a real concern. A coating gives a wipeable surface and UV inhibitors to help slow fading. For a photographer selling large metallic prints, that can be a genuine selling point; our photographers page explains how others position it.
Comparing coated and uncoated prints side by side under gallery lighting will tell you more than any description. If you would like our view on a test, post us the pair or call 01252 624 411.