Key points
• The Rule of Thirds: Image is divided into nine equal squares and to create a balanced composition, key elements are placed in one third or intersection points.
• Leading Lines: Lead your eye towards a main subject within the frame with lines (roads, rivers and fences etc).
• Natural Frames: Employing features like archways, windows or even branches to border your subject will strengthen focus in the photo.
Contents
- Key points
- Free Gallery Photo Wall Template+Free Video Tutorial
- Types of Picture Frames
- Gallery Wall
- How to Make a Gallery Wall
- Photographs
- Floating Frames
- SHADOW BOXES
- Create Your Own DIY Frames and Print Photos at Home
- Digital Frames
- Why Load balancer comes with advantages
- Matting
- Frameless Displays
- Hanging Frames
- Repurposed Items
- Themed Frames for Seasonal Decor
- Lightable Frames
- Geometric Frames
- Eclectic Mix
- How To Plan your Best Still Life Photo Layout
- Low-Profile Frames For A Mild Look
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Free Gallery Photo Wall Template
+
Free Video Tutorial
Looking To Create A Gallery Photo Wall?
Don’t Make The Mistake of Not Using A Gallery Wall Template First!
Types of Picture Frames
Natural frames: Frames in natural (barely-there) wood can add warmth and elegance to any photo. The wood grain and texture really gives the piece an aged look which matches with several kinds of decor. Wood frames, from stained and painted to naked so the grain shines through, add a warm touch.
Frames with Metal
Metal frames are quite trendy these days; they have a modern and slimline look which may be much appreciated in your contemporary styled space. Its clean lines and simple design make it perfect for modern art or photography. Metal frames: Perfect for a classic look (chrome, brass, matte black).
Vintage Frames
Ornamental and decorative vintage frames are best with a nostalgic touch. Typically, these sort of frames are embellished with hand-applied vibrant details and they provide the best in style. It can add some very vintage vibes, giving your photos a feel of the eras gone by.
Gallery Wall
Mix frame sizes and styles into a gallery wall. Design all of them and style in coherence to get into one interesting perspective.
Mixing frame styles, sizes, and shapes helps make your gallery wall more interesting visually and gives it dimension. A unique stylized look is achieved when all frames are put together using various styles.
Holistic Overall Layout
Arrange the frames collectively to indicate that they were intended to be viewed together. A good way of achieving this is by using a common theme, color scheme, or topic that binds all the pieces together.
How to Make a Gallery Wall
1. Arrange Layout: Lay out your frames on the floor to help you figure out how space is best suited for hanging. Measure & Mark: Make sure each frame is evenly spaced (top to bottom) and measured with a tape or some scrap paper. Hang Frames: Start in the middle and work outwards, hanging each frame where it corresponds to your diagram.
Last but not least, be sure that the balance of your entire display works. If needed, step away a bit and refer back to your layout or adjust where any misalignments may have occurred.
Dynamic Display Tips – Mix Frame Types: Include wooden, metal, and acrylic frames for texture.
Photographs
Mix Art and Photos: Bring in art, photography, or whatever else constitutes decor for some pizzazz among your other gallery wall elements.
Play with Orientation: Mix and match portrait vs. landscape.
Caption Some Layouts!
| Frame Type | Size | Orientation |
|---|---|---|
| Wood | 8×10 | Portrait |
| Metal | 5×7 | Landscape |
| Acrylic | 11×14 | Portrait |
Floating Frames
Floating frames, often in sleek modern black, make a great way to display photos. This frame provides an elegant, contemporary display for your photo. This showcases that float frames have a unique style with clear glass or acrylic panels that encase the photograph to give it an appearance as if floating.
Key Features and Advantages of Floating Frames
Adaptability: Floating frames are adaptable; photo floats suit a variety of picture types and can be sized much like products from small prints to oversized decor.
Protection: This further designing stage will protect your photo from dust, fingerprints, and other damages.
Optimization Tips for Floating Frames
Perfect Size: You should be able to fit any picture in that frame so it has a look of free movement.
Hang the frame in a well-lit location or with natural light to fully realize its floating effect. Floating frames give your photos a sleek, modern look and they guide people’s eyes to where you want to draw their attention.
SHADOW BOXES
Shadow box frames add depth and are also used to highlight 3D objects along with your photos such as souvenirs or mementos.
Benefits & Creative Uses for Shadow Boxes
Depth and Dimension: The deep frame adds dimension not just to your photographs but elegance.
- Works with Something Old.
- Mementos: Include details like impressions of a trip, wedding or baby memorabilia to integrate the rest of your story.
- Personal Wall Groupings: Canvas, Fabric or Paper-covered.
- Insets: Personalize the print with an inset to highlight another item/baby that you chose.
Caption: displaying your memories with a shadow box – the perfect way to add more depth.
| Photo | Souvenir | Background |
|---|---|---|
| Beach photo | Seashells, sand | Blue fabric or paper |
Create Your Own DIY Frames and Print Photos at Home
More fabby DIY frames for you here!
Washi Tape
You can actually use washi tape directly on the wall with no residue left. It is also an affordable way and you can change it whenever you want to renovate your decor.
- Washi tape (they sell them in colors and prints that fit even the most unique decor) & all you have to do is trace sides around each picture, creating a frame.
Driftwood or Upcycled Wood
If you are going for a rustic feel then why not make it more homely with some driftwood or reclaimed wood? These will create perfect nature-based finished frames. This is about harnessing nature to our ends while we reuse materials.
Gather a bunch of driftwood on the beach, or buy some rough-cut planks (reclaimed wood) at your local lumberyard that are similar in size. Be sure to sand all edges so they are super smooth. Sort the wood pieces around your photo, and then nail or adhere with glue to hold in place.
If you like the wood and finish, that is great, or paint it to match your decor. These DIY framing ideas are an amalgamation of creativity and customization, giving the most versatile photo boards out there.
Digital Frames
Digital photo frames are devices that can be set up with a slideshow of your favorite photos, changing the display at specific intervals. This is a popular way to showcase pictures collectively, making it easier to enjoy and share moments.
Some key benefits include:
Why Load balancer comes with advantages
What to look for in a digital frame: If you want to display some nice images at home or office, it’s better to go with Digital frames.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Screen Size | Choose a size that fits your space, typically ranging from 7 to 15 inches. |
| Resolution | Higher resolution ensures clearer, more vibrant images. |
| Storage Capacity | Internal storage or SD card slots to hold your photo collection. |
| Connectivity | Options like Wi-Fi, USB, and Bluetooth for easy photo transfers. |
Matting
Adding mat boards to your pictures can also be a great way of improving them. Mats act to visually frame (as well as add depth and luxury) around your framed image!
Types of Mats
Mats fall under one of 3 categories supported layer composition and the colour. Single-Layered Mats: Single-layer mats are those that have only 1 piece of board framing the photograph. They are minimal but chic and go with the photo (matching or contrasting it perfectly). In other mats, they have two boards that are colored differently, and using a thick mat board with another layer of artboards can create double-layered Mats.
Choosing a Color
When you are choosing your mat color use this popular decision-making trick: MATCHING COMPLEMENTARY COLORS: Select a color that will make the other colors in your photo really stand out. This will help to emphasize the important parts of the image.
Neutral colours (white, black, and grey) are a safe bet if in doubt of the colouring.
Importance of Matting
Here is why matting is important:
- Professional Finish: Mats give a sophisticated look to the photograph making it ready for gallery, exhibit, or personal wall display.
- The first thing that I feel mat adds in an aesthetic sense is that all-important line (the edge).
Conclusion: The mat board is the appropriate tool used during your photo-framing that helps to give a better appearance and longevity of pictures. You can frame your photos with matting that may be a double or single-layer of mats, in any scheme you wish.
Frameless Displays
If you are after a late-century modern way of presenting your photos as minimalist as can be, frameless displays are an option. These options with or without the background blur ensure that all attention is drawn to the imagery itself, creating an instantly polished modern aesthetic.
Clip Frames
Frame clips are a simple and stylish way to display your photos. The photo is held in place by a protective glass or acrylic cover with these clips. This photo-securing technique results in a protection that is unobtrusive and minimalistic.
Canvas Prints
Your photos can also be represented in a different art form called canvas print. Here you print a photo on canvas and hang it without an ordinary frame. This method can create a more textured, deeper photo in which the image is treated as art rather than just a picture.
Hanging Frames
Whether your go-to move is striking a pose or just lounging with the family, hanging frames provide flexible and chic photo display options.
Few More Realistic Ideas to Think Over
String/Clips – If you want a simple and movable display of your pictures, then making use of pics with clips and string or wire is a good idea that makes for a playful and creative display:
- Lay out strong thread or wire along the wall perpendicular to it on the level.
- Attach your photo string with decorative clips or clothespins.
- Swap in some new pictures to refresh the display and change it out.
Hanging Collage Frames
Here we have the Flowery Design 8 Photo Collage Frame, which makes it easy for you to put together all your favorite photos in one great big collage with a built-in wall hanger.
- Add your pics to the allocated photo slots and hang it somewhere where everyone can see it for an artsy yet balanced display.
- Situate the frame in a place that readily accentuates your life on display.
- Break up the mood by mismatching sizes or orientations of photos for even more visual stimulation.
Repurposed Items
Reused objects can help give the stories a bit more character in photo displays. Some ideas for using recycled frames to inspire you.
How To Display Multiple Photos
One of the cool ways to hang multiple photos is through old window frames or doors. Those are things that most people would either throw out or buy at a yard sale and can be turned into beautiful multiple photo displays. All you need to do is give them a little refresh and slide your photos in behind the glass panes, recycling the old items while imparting a vintage touch to your home decor.
Books
If books are your thing, then reach for an antique book and carve out the inside. Gently hollow the center out of a book, leaving an even edge all around. Put your favorite photo in the middle of that cutout, and you have a cute frame that shows your love for reading while displaying a cherished photo.
Themed Frames for Seasonal Decor
My first recommendation is themed frames with the changing seasons or special holidays on tap to celebrate. It puts the holiday spirit in your everyday decor and keeps those photo displays fresh and fun. You could use leaf frames for the fall, snowflakes in winter, beach motifs, and flowers in spring. Choose themed frames – hearts for Valentine’s Day, pumpkins for Halloween, and ornaments around Christmas.
Themed Decor
Instead, you could match in kind. It pulls the room together and just looks really clean. If your room already feels beachy, try a nautical themed frame with some seashells or anchors incorporated into it. Combine distressed framing with rustic surroundings or frames constructed from reclaimed wood for an authentic impression. It also brings a lot of elegance and personality to the display in your pictures.
Lightable Frames
Lights in frames (LED) make images look gorgeous. The frames are available in different shapes and sizes, so you can keep it basic by uploading your own photo for which style will suit your decoration. While focusing a warm LED light against the piece image, it also decorates your place inside with some soft ambient lights.
Benefits/Uses of Illumined Frames
- Your pic will be simply apparent to the viewers in every lighting condition due to these LED light outcomes.
- Modern and Aesthetic: Lighted frames have a shiny design that will give your place an up-to-date look.
- Energy Saver: As compared to other light sources, LEDs consume very little electricity but produce extra gentle light.
- Versatility: Color changing, dimmable, and various LED colors.
A lighted frame is a cool way to make your photos more sophisticated and chic. Picking out the correct frame, with a bit of help, becomes a visual treat that will enhance not just your photo but where you are going to put it as well!
| Factor | Consideration |
|---|---|
| Size | Ensure the frame size matches the dimensions of your photo. |
| Brightness | Select a brightness level that enhances the photo without causing glare. |
| Color Temperature | Choose a color temperature that complements the colors in your photo. |
| Power Source | Consider whether the frame is battery-operated or requires an electrical outlet. |
Geometric Frames
GO STYLISH WITH GEOMETRIC SHAPED OR PATTERNS IN YOUR FRAMES. A frame with a grey border in geometric shapes or patterns helps highlight the artistic aspect of your photo. Geometric frames are also very conservative as they have plain lines and more unconventional shapes; this makes them an excellent choice for contemporary households. Your photo displays will go a geometric mile with these frames.
Hexagonal Frames
This is a cool alternative to the usual rectangular or square frames.
Polygon Patterns
Polygon frames such as triangle, pentagon, or octagons can make your photo collection look complicated and dynamic.
Layered Geometric Frames
Make shapes out of a single one in order to give the impression that something is 3D. This way, your bunch of photos are not so one-note.
Minimalist Geometric Frames
Opt for frames with simple geometric shapes such as rectangular or circular which stand as the basis of this trend. These are space builders, particularly in the context of a pared-back space as they bring just enough pizzazz without hitting you over the head.
Geometric Collage Frames
Frames are created in such a way that they have the capacity to accommodate more than one photo and are arranged or displayed geometrically. This is a cool way to display creative images in a similar series. Use geometric frames to turn your display of photos into an art installation, which harmonizes the interior design of any home or living space.
Eclectic Mix
Mix and match frames in varied styles, colors, and sizes for a look that is uniquely you. This will allow you to create a unique display that reflects your style and gives soul into the space, as all design should! Mix up all your frames to emphasize that each picture on the table is one of a kind, but still working within an overall gallery.
Frame Styles
Vintage, modern and rustic frames for a variety of decor styles.
Colors
Choose from all the colorful frames and give that quirky, fancy look to your images. Keep your palette limited to no more than 3 eye-catching colors on top of neutral tones.
Sizes
It is necessary to balance and catch the viewer’s eye by mixing sizes of frames throughout. The large frame is a focal point, while the smaller ones fill in gaps and provide little details.
How To Plan your Best Still Life Photo Layout
LAY IT OUT: Before you hang a thing, plot everything on the floor in front of its possible home and play around with arrangements. This video will be useful to visualize the optimal composition. The right balance does not mean that every square inch of available space has to be filled; do frames surround other tracks in the tones? But still frame them so all remember clearly where you were going and put like thoughts together.
Type
Even if the frames are varied, it’s a good idea to have photos go together as well: Family/Descriptions/travels/nature.
Gallery Wall Spacing
Gallery walls are all about bringing different stuff together. Anything to space them out so the area has even more personality. You may group frames tightly as well as space some of them apart.
Sample Layout Table
If you mix in a bunch of different frame shapes, styles, and colors – all beautifully organized instead of feeling like it’s just tossed together – it can be eclectic which is perfect to add visual interest throughout each room.
| Frame Style | Color | Size |
|---|---|---|
| Vintage | Gold | Large |
| Modern | Black | Medium |
| Rustic | White | Small |
| Ornate | Silver | Large |
Low-Profile Frames For A Mild Look
Rule of thumb: light and lean is better suited for a more minimalist frame style. They have basic frames (i.e. slim borders), offered in neutral shades such as white, black, and grey. Narrow frame: Crisp, clean, and minimalistic design that allows the photo subject to dominate (good for anything from a family pic to more panoramic landscape shots).
Minimalist Frame Benefits
What are Minimal Frames benefits?
- Neutral Tones: The neutral palette of colors and simple design make them suitable for any home style.
- Thin edges keep the space attention on a photo.
- A Modern Twist – They can give a room that much-needed traditional but modern vibe immediately.
How to Pick Which Minimalist Frame
So now that you have your minimalist frames, how do you place them in a position where they will get noticed?
- Gallery Wall – black and white minimalist frame set lets you have the most combination.
- Eye Level: The frames must be on eye level so that they can be frequently used in viewing.
- Spaced Out: Those picture frames need to be evenly spaced out so your wall looks even better.
Skinny frames are an elegant choice to frame photos just about anywhere. This is a result of their simplicity and elegance, making them perfect for all the photographs that will be taken without stealing center stage.
| Factor | Considerations |
|---|---|
| Color | Choose a neutral color that complements the photo and the room’s decor. |
| Material | Opt for high-quality materials like metal or wood for durability. |
| Size | Ensure the frame size matches the photo dimensions for a snug fit. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How can you frame a piece of art with a modern twist?
Use sleek metal frames or geometric patterns to give the artwork a contemporary look. Floating frames also add a modern touch by making the art appear as if it’s floating on the wall.
What are creative ways to frame postcards?
You could use clip frames for a minimalistic approach or shadow boxes to add depth. Creating a collage within one large frame can also make an eye-catching display in any room.
How can family photos be framed creatively?
Group them into themed sections like ‘travels’ or ‘holiday moments’. Use various frame styles and sizes to add visual interest. Adding matting around each photo can also highlight their uniqueness.
What's a unique framing idea for wedding pictures?
Consider using a gallery wall layout, where frames vary in size and style but share a cohesive color scheme. You could also use materials from the wedding such as lace or fabric swatches inside shadow boxes for sentimental value.
What framing idea would suit a basement wall space?
Opt for large format posters or a mix of comic book covers in sleek frames to keep the area casual yet stylish. Using LED-lit frames can also brighten up the space significantly.
What are some tips for displaying photo frames in an office?
Keep it professional by choosing uniform black or neutral-colored frames. Focus on important personal milestones or inspirational quotes. A family tree chart can add a personal touch while maintaining professionalism.
How can matting enhance the look of photographs?
Matting adds an elegant border around your photograph and draws attention to it. It helps separate the image from its frame, ensuring the picture stands out more distinctly.
What else can be included in picture frame displays?
Aside from photos, you can include items like flowers, sheet music, postcards, or ticket stubs. These additions personalize the displayed piece and often evoke special memories.
What's a good way to display a collection of diamond art pieces?
Group them in a dedicated space like a wall gallery. Use simple white or black frames to let the sparkle stand out. Arrange them symmetrically or asymmetrically for visual impact.
How can one incorporate puzzle frames into home decor?
Use frames specifically designed for puzzles to preserve and display completed works. Hang them in playrooms or halls as a fun, engaging wall accessory that showcases your hobbies and interests.
About Author
Rachel Noël is a professional photographer and videographer from the UK with over 10+ years of experience. Rachel specializes in Underwater, Tavel & Portrait photography among other areas.