Glossy vs. Matte Metal Prints: Which Is Right for You?

Glossy vs. Matte Metal Prints: Which Is Right for You?

Metal prints are one of the most striking ways to turn your photos into modern wall art. Printed directly onto aluminum, they deliver intense color, sharp detail, and a sleek, frameless look that feels gallery-ready right out of the box.

But there’s one key decision you need to make before ordering:
Should you choose glossy or matte metal prints?

Both finishes look beautiful but they behave very differently once they’re on your wall. In this guide, we’ll walk through the differences between glossy and matte metal prints, when to choose each one, and how to pick the perfect finish for your space and your photos.

What Are Metal Prints?

Metal prints start with a high-resolution image that’s infused or printed onto a durable aluminum panel. The result is:

  • Vivid colors and deep contrast
  • A sleek, modern, frameless appearance
  • Incredible durability (resistant to moisture, warping, and fading)
  • Easy-to-clean, low-maintenance wall art

On the ATL Canvas metal prints product page, you can customize size and finish, turning your favorite photo into a premium piece of metal wall art that fits your home perfectly.

Once you’ve picked your photo and size, the next big choice is finish: glossy or matte.

What Is a Glossy Metal Print?

A glossy metal print has a high-shine, reflective surface that instantly grabs attention. Think of it as the “HD” option for your wall art: everything looks bright, crisp, and bold.

Key features of glossy metal prints:

  • High shine: Reflects light and adds a glass-like sheen.
  • Intense color: Saturation and contrast are boosted, making images feel more dramatic.
  • Deep blacks & bright whites: Great for photos with rich tones and strong highlights.
  • “Wow” factor: Ideal for statement pieces and feature walls.

Best photos for glossy metal prints:

  • City skylines and night photography
  • Beach sunsets, golden hour shots, and dramatic landscapes
  • High-contrast black-and-white images
  • Bold abstract art and colorful designs

If you want your metal print to pop from across the room, glossy is a strong contender.

What Is a Matte Metal Print?

A matte metal print has a smooth, non-reflective finish. It still delivers beautiful color and detail, but without the shine and glare of a glossy surface.

Key features of matte metal prints:

  • Low glare: Minimizes reflections from windows and overhead lights.
  • Soft, elegant look: Colors appear slightly more subtle and refined.
  • Great for bright rooms: Perfect where light sources are hard to control.
  • Versatile style: Works well with modern, minimalist, and cozy interiors.

Best photos for matte metal prints:

  • Portraits, lifestyle photography, and wedding photos
  • Soft landscapes and nature imagery
  • Images with light or pastel color palettes
  • Room décor that leans calm, neutral, or Scandinavian-inspired

If you love a modern, sophisticated, and easy-to-live-with look, matte metal prints are a fantastic choice.

How Lighting Affects Your Choice

Lighting is one of the most important factors when choosing between glossy and matte metal prints.

Choose Glossy If:

  • The wall gets soft, indirect light most of the day.
  • You’re okay with some reflections because you want that high-impact shine.
  • The print will hang in a space where you want drama and depth (like behind a sofa, above a console, or in a home office).

Choose Matte If:

  • The wall is opposite large windows or glass doors.
  • You have multiple bright light sources (ceiling LEDs, spotlights, etc.).
  • The print will hang in a bedroom, hallway, or any area where you prefer a soft, glare-free look.

If you’re planning to showcase your ATL Canvas metal print in a bright or sunlit space, matte is usually the safer, more versatile choice.

Bringing It All Together with ATL Canvas Metal Prints

Whether you choose glossy or matte, metal prints from ATL Canvas give you:

  • Premium aluminum panels
  • Rich, accurate color reproduction
  • Sleek, frameless presentation
  • Ready-to-hang modern wall art that transforms your space

Pick your favorite photo, choose your size, select glossy or matte, and let your next metal print become the statement piece your wall has been waiting for.

Glossy or matte, you really can’t go wrong—just match the finish to your style, your space, and the story you want your metal print to tell.

Back to blog