How do metallic paint finishes affect colour?
Metallic finishes contain reflective particles that scatter light directionally rather than diffusely, producing a shifting, lustrous look that changes with viewing angle and light position — this is very difficult to represent accurately on a screen or in a flat colour swatch.
metallic
What it affects
- Reflection
- Perceived depth
- Contrast
- Screen to physical difference
Practical advice
Always view a physical metallic sample under the room's real lighting and from more than one angle — a screen or printed swatch cannot show the directional shimmer that defines the finish.
Always confirm with a physical sample in the actual finish before committing to a large surface — see methodology.
Related terms
Sources
- Colourwise editorial synthesis — Colourwise