Do you think it makes a difference if when you have your pictures developed, you choose matt or glossy finish?

Whenever I've had photos developed (which isn't that often) I've always gone for matt because I (personally) think glossy can look a bit tacky on some pictures.

I'm just interested to know other people's opinions on this one?

Im the same. I always go for matt finish, never glossy. Glossy looks cheap and tacky... matt is the way to go

I'm afraid you're being mislead ... matt is not always the way to go I'm afraid. Matt may be good for avoiding fingerprints, but gloss is the preferred medium of professionals. That includes competition entries unless the picture actually benefits from matt. Gloss is a difficult medium to cope with as it appears to create havoc with contrast, but the blacks and whites are really good in a well exposed, well composed glossy image. I have always used gloss for my wedding photo proofs, and have wouldn't dream of using matt as it makes the image dull and lifeless in some cases. OK for holiday snaps, but if you're serious about your images, then gloss should be the one to go for. Don't confuse the matt with the matt-paper for digital prints though. I'm talking about the matt you get from processors. Matt paper for inkjet printers, with the right image, gives a fantastic appearance like watercolours and that's absolutely fine as far as I can see.
Enjoy
Andy
LRPS LBPPA

I think it's just a matter of choice. I've always preferred matt to Gloss.