Picture Framing - Overview

Picture frames essentially does the job of enhancing your image, bring focus to your favourite photograph, protect it and bring professional feel to it.  Picture Framing is also an extension of the photography process. Once you decide to frame your picture then choices in framing can be myriad and process overwhelming. There are several options to tackle the framing job. You need to decide on the design of frame, different type of mats, frames, glass and the way the picture is going to be mounted. Despite having several choices the overall process of framing generally remains the same.

There are two broad categories in which frames can be divided:  ready-made and custom made

Custom Framing: This is the expensive but sophisticated option of framing and are generally in wood or metal base. Custom picture frames are best used to preserve family heirloom or irreplaceable artwork and provides the flexibility to choose high quality acid free materials that can preserve the artwork for decades. 

Ready Made Frames: Ready-made picture frames are made in bulk and comes in usual size of a standard photograph prints such as 8x10, 6x4 etc. There is no flexibility in changing the material or design of the frame and the buyer has to simply accept the material, matting colour and dimensions offered.

Which frame is right for you

The reality here is that there is no one single answer to this question. For some readymade project will be just fine while in other cases more expensive custom made frame will be suitable. 

As a rule of thumb ready-made frame should be used when the photograph can be cut to standard size and is not too precious. Such examples are digital photograph or posters. They might have high sentimental value but they can be reprinted at click of mouse. 

Custom made frame are best to preserve family heirloom and irreplaceable artwork and has the flexibility to choose high quality such as acid free materials that can preserve the artwork for decades.

Ultimately the frame you choose should be based on your budget, pictures value (monetarily and emotional both) with proper consideration being given to the place where you are going to hang it.

Do need expert advice for picture framing

Consultancy in Picture framing becomes important because there are lot of element that are involved in creating a perfect picture frame. Elements that your consultant will advise you on are given below but this in no way an exhaustive list and can change from framers to framers.

Frame materials - Material that you use for your frame depends on your budget and size of the photo you plan to frame.
Mat size and color- You can certainly frame a photo without the mat but is not recommended. Mat provides stability, protection and not to mention flare to your frame. Mat also provides proper spacing between your photo and protective glass.
Layout Design: Framers will help you decide on how you plan to display your photos. Is it single-framed prints or collage frames with several prints?
Glazing: Glazing is equipment in frame that protects everything in a frame. This again is optional but is highly recommended if artwork is exposed to varied temperature and humidity changes.

It is best to use the services of professional when you plan to display your photo in a costly frame. Framing can be an awkward job especially for pictures that are large or of dissimilar size. So Always use a professional to help craft your framing as per your requirement and turn your picture into a wonderful memory that you can share with the world.

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