Prints

[m_mphotography]

Okay, so I really should do some reading on my own, but I thought that I could maybe get some quick input from this crowd of photogs with much more experience than myself. I'm wondering about getting quality prints...

I've been getting my prints at a local lab...but I just signed up with WHCC and just got my sample prints back along with all kinds of paper options....so I guess I'm wondering...what is the best type finish to put on the prints??? My local lab does a great job, but they only have glossy or matte finish. I've yet to sample their matte, as I've only printed on glossy from them. While the pics look awesome, the glossyness just makes them so fragile cuz you don't want to even touch the print in fear that you'll leave a smudge on the image.

So, WHCC sent my sample prints on lustre paper, which I think looks really really nice. I like it, it's not completely matte, as there is a bit of gloss to it, and it's got texture...I think I'm liking this option....but is this optimal?? Then they sent me a bunch of sample paper...lustre paper, glossy paper, lustre coated, pebble texture, linen texture and another texture...>I would think that LARGE prints, >11x14 would look awesome in a textured paper, but what about 4x6 through 8x10?? what do you do/prefer and why?

i've read lots of photogs advertise their prints are lustre coated to last? how is the lustre cat different than lustre paper??

[kenw]

some random thoughts:

matte hides fingerprints well but dulls the apparent sharpness a bit. it is also difficult to scan, if that matters...

glossy is a fingerprint magnet, the slightest bit of water will damage the finish (random spit, sweat, etc....) but looks best imho. reflections can drive you bonkers.

luster is a good compromise, not as reflective as glossy and sharper than matte

the best finish is going to be based on the actual pic. Some need the sharpness, others aren't hurt by the lack of it.