Photography
Frame Designs for Photography
If you have ever been to a photography show or competition, it is common to see photos framed in white mats and narrow black frames, as that can sometimes be a requirement. However, when photos are framed as art to be displayed in a home or office, there are many ways to beautifully enhance an image with different mat options and unique frames.
Things to keep in mind as you look at design options for photos:
Glossy Photos vs. Matte Finish Photos
With glossy photos, the colors can sometimes be much richer than with matte finish photos. So, if you’re looking to incorporate colored mats into the design, you may want to consider fabric mats, as they sometimes have richer colors.
Glossy frame finishes may also relate better to glossy photos, but when you place a glossy frame on a matte finish photo, it may pull attention away from the picture.
When framing photographs, the same considerations should be used as any other type of art. Take the opportunity to customize the design by choosing colors, styles, and proportions that best flatter the image!
Examples
This framed photo design is a variation of the light, neutral mat and black frame often used when framing photography, but instead, includes a wider profile, a neutral top mat, a fillet, and a white bottom mat. This neutral design keeps the focus on the photo, but the combined design is very custom and dramatic.
This framed photo has color introduced into the design. The mat complements the photo, without being distracting, and offers a nice alternative to a white or neutral mat. The frame and fillet complete the custom design.
This third design incorporates a monochromatic palette using a light frame, white mats, and a fillet. The rich colors in the photo can really be appreciated with this custom design.
Photographs
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All too often photos are placed into photo frames or simple readymades when they could look so much more special in custom frame designs. There should always be an air space between the glass and the photo…something that is often neglected unless it is custom framed.
When choosing mats and frames for your photos, think about the subject, era, color, style, and substrate. When you pay attention to each of these categories, your frame design will be the most flattering to the photo.
Unless you own the digital file or negative to create a new photo, you should always treat photos like any other work of art by using conservation grade framing materials.
