How to Choose the Right Paper for Professional Photo Printing

Different papers create different moods. Learn how to pick the perfect surface — from Lustre and Metallic Pearl to Fine Art and Canvas — to make your photos shine.

Understanding print finishes can help you make the perfect choice for your images — and ensure your photos look their absolute best.

Different professional photo print paper types - Yellow Lab Imaging

Why Paper Choice Matters

When you print a photo, the surface you choose has a major impact on how your image feels and performs. Each paper finish handles light, color, and texture differently — so whether you’re creating family prints, gallery artwork, or commercial pieces, the right choice ensures your work shines exactly as intended.

Lustre Prints – Balanced and Versatile

Lustre photo prints offer a semi-gloss finish that provides vivid color, deep blacks, and minimal glare. They’re ideal for portraits, event photos, and professional portfolios where realism and consistency matter. Lustre paper is our most popular option because it combines rich detail with fingerprint resistance — perfect for everyday printing and professional presentation.

Metallic Pearl Prints – Vibrant and Reflective

Our Metallic Pearl paper adds a unique depth and sheen that enhances contrast and saturation. It’s excellent for bold landscapes, macro photography, or images with strong highlights and metallic tones. The high-gloss surface gives a striking, dimensional look that draws attention from across the room.

Fine Art Prints – Archival and Textured

If you’re looking for timeless quality, Fine Art Prints are produced on archival matte or velvet papers using pigment inks for museum-level longevity. The subtle paper texture gives each print a tactile, artistic feel — perfect for gallery shows, portfolio pieces, and reproduction artwork.

Canvas Gallery Wraps – Ready to Display

Our Canvas Gallery Wraps turn your images into wall art. Each print is made on heavyweight canvas, hand-stretched over solid wood frames, and coated for UV protection. Canvas wraps eliminate the need for framing, providing a soft, elegant presentation that’s ready to hang.

Choosing What’s Right for You

There’s no single “best” option — it depends on your image, audience, and personal preference. If you’re uncertain which paper type fits your project, our team is here to help. We review every order by hand to ensure your prints are as vibrant and accurate as possible, no matter where you are in the U.S.