Gloss, satin and lustre photo papers are the backbone of photographic printing, used for everything from exhibition prints and wedding albums to large wall prints in offices and hotels. Most are resin-coated papers with a microporous receiving layer that absorbs ink quickly and gives sharp detail and deep blacks.
That receiving layer is also the reason these papers need protecting. It is porous by design, so an uncoated print can be marked by fingerprints, water or airborne pollutants, and gloss surfaces scuff easily. Prints displayed unframed or as large face-mounted or board-mounted pieces are especially exposed.
How coating changes a photo print
- Protection. Colourjet adds a barrier against water, chemicals and abrasion, with integrated UV inhibitors against premature fading.
- Surface. A coat can reduce bronzing and gloss differential on pigment prints by giving the whole surface a single, even sheen.
- Appearance. Expect a change. A gloss coat on lustre paper will make it glossier; a semi-gloss coat on gloss paper will soften it. Colour and black density can shift slightly too.
Practical guidance
Let the print dry properly
Microporous papers feel dry almost immediately, but ink carrier stays in the coating layer for some time, especially in dense shadows. Coating too early can cause cloudiness or uneven gloss. Give prints time to dry fully before coating.
Choose a method to suit the size
ClearJet aerosols in gloss and semi-gloss are well suited to smaller photo prints and one-offs. Large prints and regular production benefit from a liquid lamination machine for an even layer. See the ClearJet range and coatings.
Pigment versus dye
Pigment prints on photo paper usually coat well. Dye prints are more prone to fading and moisture damage, and some can bleed under a solvent coating, so test carefully and keep expectations realistic.
Avoid these mistakes
- Coating in a dusty room. Every particle shows on a gloss print.
- Applying one heavy coat instead of even, controlled layers.
- Assuming all photo papers behave alike. Baryta-style and fibre-based papers differ from resin-coated papers, so test each.
Want to see how your paper looks coated before you commit? Send us a print and we will run a test, or call 01252 624 411 to discuss finishes.