Often overlooked and under-considered photo lamination, or the finish which gives the photo protection from the world around it. Lamination can change the visual and tactile experience of shopping for a photo. It can also affect the perceived quality and value of the photo. While gloss lamination catches the eye with high-contrast colors and sheen, matte lamination offers an understated and soft look.
Gloss Lamination
Gloss laminate is visually stunning. It produces deeper, cleaner and crisper lines and colors, and gives vibrancy to cover photos. The glossy, reflective finish grabs attention and implies a richer product. Gloss laminate is durable in that it repels dust, dirt and fingerprints. Even when it does come into contact with surface dirt, it is easily wiped clean. Gloss is the standard for trade paperbacks.
Some considerations to make when choosing gloss lamination: Scuffs, scratches and indents can be more visible with gloss covers – by nature of the glossy reflective finish, the imperfections catch light and draw attention. The vibrancy of color and sheen of the finish can sometimes overshadow the subtlety of an understated cover design.
Matte Lamination
Matte Laminate is often described as a more professional and elegant finish. Matte is currently the more “fashionable” choice for laminate. It is currently very popular among Young Adult titles. Authors, designers and consumers are enamored with the look and feel of matte lamination. The velvety texture of the finish makes for a pleasant tactile experience. The matte soft finish is less reflective than gloss, giving a more natural look to your photo. A less shiny cover absorbs more small scratches and scuffs without looking “beat up”. The simple contrast of a matte cover among many glossy covers may draw it’s own attention on the bookstore shelf.
In the end, laminate is a personal preference – that can only really be evaluated with book in hand. Ordering proof copies of your photo in different laminates can give you the ability to compare and contrast finishes on your own.