Types of Photo Frames: A Resource for Decoration
We all have pictures of family, friends, vacations, or ourselves. Actually, they’ve become another decorative resource. For this reason, we’re going to show you the different types of photo frames that you can have.
Although it may not seem like it, the relevance that you want to bring to a photograph is found in the shape of the frame. This establishes a dimension, allows you to center the image, and avoids diverting your gaze.
On the contrary, it’s been socially conceived that the larger the photograph, the greater the attraction it’ll have for the viewer. But this isn’t the case. It’s not always the image that attracts, but the frame itself.
Types of photo frames: why are they necessary?
Indeed, a photo frame fulfills a very important function for photography. Normally, it ends up standing out definitively when the frame is arranged.
Strictly, it establishes formality and an external visual line that contains a parallel content: photography. Whether it’s photos of people, a wedding, a painting, or a landscape, the frame helps to create meaning.
When asked, if it’s necessary to put a frame on a photograph, the answer is that it’s not necessary. But it provides a more coherent and decorative sense. Moreover, if a photograph isn’t framed, it feels as if something is missing or expresses informality.
Types of frames
Obviously, there are multiple types of frames, however, the sensations offered by some may be completely different from others. You have to take into account your decorative style to know which frame to choose. These are the most common shapes of photo frames:
- Quadrangular
- Rectangular
- Circular
- Oval
- Curved
Functions of each type of frame
Depending on the shape of the frame, its line, and its material, it can express one sense or another. The following things must be considered before you buy and display your photo frames.
- Rectangular: as a general rule, most photographs are in this format. With this type of frame, you’ll achieve a balanced character that generates stability and the correct adaptation to a landscape image.
- Square: this variant means that the photograph is more enclosed because its dimension is smaller than a rectangular one. The view is more directed towards the content.
- Circular: in case you want to focus on the content of the image or highlight it in detail, this format is the most suitable. Although, it’s not optimal for landscapes or aerial views.
- Oval: like the previous frame, if you want to highlight a portrait, a head and shoulder image, or a particular element that’s the protagonist, an oval frame is the most convenient.
- Curved: sinuous lines produce instability, movement, and agitation. This type is less common and more difficult to adapt to the space because it can generate too much dynamism.
Types of frames: materials and colors
Frames can be made of different materials. These three types of frames are generally the most popular:
- Wood and its variants
- silver or other metals
- Plastic
Whether they’re made of one or another material will depend on your style and decor. The interior style must be taken into account to know which materials fit best.
As for the color, it’s exactly the same technique. A dark color can fit well in any room, but if you apply other strong tones such as red, it may clash.
Frames made of wood are usually tan-brown in color. In this case, it’ll fit perfectly in rural, alternative, and classic environments. However, in more modern, minimalist, or urban-style houses, frames made of plastic or metal are a wise choice.
Places to put your frames
Photographs are testimonies to an unforgettable past event. As such and depending on where they’re placed, you’ll be frequently reminded of the memory it contains. Shelves in the living room are a very appropriate place as they don’t take full prominence. But they do fulfill a decorative and attractive function for the viewer.
It’s better not to put them next to the television, since they lose importance. You should look for places where you want to attribute importance or prominence. Bedrooms are also very appropriate spaces to display photo frames.
In short, choose the format, material, and color of the frame appropriately. Don’t overlook these details, since they’re essential to establishing the best aesthetics of the whole room.