why reflective screens?
 

I'm planning to get an HD-capable computer monitor with HDMI to show video samples at events. Locations could be anything from a hotel conf. room to a large outdoor tent.

I was looking at an HP 2558, which has a stand that I love for transportation and setup. It folds down, adjusts, and would easily fit in a hard case.

The problem is that the screen is almost mirror-like. You sort of have to shift your focus from the lights reflecting on it to the image on screen.

Is this as much of a deal killer as I think, or there something good about it that I'm missing?

It's sort of like photographic prints:
- glossy or matte paper

The glossy screens CAN make colours LOOK richer and more "wet" but then you have the issues of reflectivity and viewing angles.

I prefer my screens "flat" and my prints semi-gloss.

I see they classify the shiny 2558 as a consumer monitor, and the 2475 (not shiny, I believe) as small biz. So maybe HP considers the 2475 more practical and the 2558 more appealing to the gen. public. I guess consumers like shiny things.

I love glossy screens, after using the screen on my 17" Macbook Pro my apple cinema displays felt really lifeless. I've just purchased a 24" glossy apple display and it makes video and images look so much more vibrant.

Reflections can become an issue if you have bright objects behind you though.

Maybe in a well controlled environment, but walking into unknown conditions with limited setup options, I think it would be too risky. Most of the events I would go to, such as conferences and expos, have a lot of lighting, too.