In the digital age that we all live in, it’s easy for our photographs to get stuck on our cameras, computers and other digital devices. Framing your photographs is a fantastic way to preserve and share your work, whether you’re an amateur or professional photographer. Don’t lock your photos away; read our guide to photography framing to learn how to give your photos the attention they deserve.
Table of Contents
Anatomy of a frame
Before you head to the framers, it’s good to have an idea of the different parts of the frame.
Glazing: The glass or acrylic protecting the front of the photograph.
Frame: The exterior frame can be made in various materials, shapes and moulds, including raw or painted wood, metal or MDF.
Window Mount: The window mount creates a negative space around the photograph, making it the prominent focus. While not always required, window mounts can add depth or a bright splash of colour.
Back board: The backboard is the frame’s spine, sitting behind the photo and holding it in place.
Fixings: Fixings are what allow your frame to attach to the wall. Different fixing styles will make your frame sit flush against the wall or appear to float 1-2mm away from it.
Choosing the perfect frame Frame
In a sea of frames, how are you supposed to know which colour and style will look best with your photographs? The good news is that there are no wrong answers. Framing (like all things) is a personal choice, so it’s hard to go wrong. Let’s look at a few of the most common frame styles:
Standard frames: As the name states, this is the style most people think of when they hear the word ‘frame’. Standard frames are ideal for photographers who want to display their work in a traditional style.
Box frames: Using a spacer between the glass and photograph, box frames create depth and shadow by keeping distance between the glazing and the image.
Floating frames: Similar to box frames, floating frames use spacers between the glass, photograph, and backing, so the photo appears to float within the frame.
Tray frames: Sitting recessed within the frame to prevent damage, tray frames are ideal for mounted photographs or works that don’t need glazing.
Much ado about mounting
Like all aspects of framing, the addition of a window mount for your printed artwork is a matter of personal choice. Window mounts are not required for framing, but their inclusion can help give prominence to your framed work. If you choose to add a window mount, choose a colour and material that will complement your photograph and give it a polished finish. While most go for window mounts in neutral colours, test out mounts in different sizes and colours to see what will make your picture pop.
Glaze away
The window into your work, a frame’s glazing helps safeguard your photos from dust, dirt and even UV damage. Some of the most common glazing types are:
Standard Glass: Widely available and cost effective, but highly reflective and doesn’t protect against UV rays
Anti-reflective Glass: Another cost-effective option; this glazing style is specially coated to reduce glare and reflections and glare.
Acrylic: One of the most popular and practical choices, acrylic is durable and protects against UV and infrared damage.
UV Resistant Glass: Ideal for preserving the longevity of your photos, this glazing style blocks 99% of UV rays with minimal glare or reflection.
Museum grade glass: The gold standard of glazing is non-reflective and stops 99% of UV rays.
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