My Nissan Maxima has a very shiny metal dipstick. With clean oil, it is very difficult to tell where the oil level is. I usually use the method posted above using the paper towel soaking up the oil to determine the level. I have been tempted to cut very small "notches" with a dremel in the side at the low and full marks. I had a previous car with these notches on the dipstick, and they were very handy. These "nothces" are approximately the width of a dremel cutting wheel, and maybe 1/16" deep. Just enough for oil to cling in if the level is to them. Only drawback is you have to be careful when wiping a paper towel on the dipstick as the notches will tear the paper towel, and you could inadvertently reinsert the dipstick with this little piece on it.
Another option would be very small (1/16 or smaller) holes drilled in the center of the dipstick at the appropriate levels.
Dave