8 Standard Picture Frame Sizes and When to Use Each One
Framing, often overlooked, is an integral part of the journey of a photograph.
A photograph never really comes to life until it’s properly printer and framed or mounted, they do not belong on your phone or your hard drive, it’s a physical medium…print your pictures!!!
In this article we’re going to look at framing, the what to and the what not to do.
I have seen wonderful images brought to life or stifled, depending on how they were framed.
We’ll also explore the importance of frame and mat sizing, the color of the frame relative to the piece, and the placing of a picture within a room.
It’s very complex and entirely specific to the context in which it is placed in your house, but hopefully when looking at the examples I give, you’ll start to see the difference between the good the bad and the ugly.
The Importance of Frame and Mat Sizing
Choosing the correct size for both the frame and the mat is fundamental. Frames provide structure and support to the artwork, while mats offer a buffer of space that can elevate the viewing experience.
Size matters greatly when considering the balance between the artwork, the frame, and the wall it adorns.
Proportion and Balance
The frame should neither overwhelm the artwork nor shrink it.
When a frame is too large, the piece can be dwarfed by it, losing its visual presence.
Conversely, a frame that is too small may leave the artwork feeling cramped or incomplete, as though it lacks the space to breathe.
Proper proportions in framing guide the viewer’s eye naturally toward the subject, allowing the picture to dominate, while the frame subtly supports.
The first three examples here work as they maintain a balance between the amount of black and white in the frame, the mount and picture.
I find the second image to be a bit boring however because the mat and the frame are the same size, so there’s no rhythm to the piece.
In the fourth image however the balance is lost, the mat is now too small and the size of it relative to the frame is incorrect.
A mat that is too narrow might cause the image to feel crowded, while a mat that is too wide can make the artwork appear lost within an expanse of space. A standard mat width of 2-4 inches typically works well, but this depends on the scale of the piece. In larger works, the mat can afford to be wider without overwhelming the image.
Now examine this colour landscape photograph.
Image one works well. The image is landscape and the width of the mat helps pull the eye from side to side, which compliments the rhythm of the landscape. You want the viewer to look from left to right, and this contrast in size aids that.
The next image however doesn’t work for the opposite reason. The top of the image feels cramped and the viewers eye is pulled to the top of the image, rather than examining it from left to right.
This last image works, the uniform mat size compliments the image without detracting from it.
Adding Depth and Focus
A well-chosen mat can add depth to a piece, drawing the viewer’s eye inward toward the artwork. This added layer of separation between the image and the frame provides a subtle transition, creating a sense of formality.
The mat, particularly in photography, can act as a neutral ground between the work and its surroundings, focusing attention on the piece itself.
The Colour of the Frame Relative to the Artwork
While the size of the frame is crucial, its color and texture are no less important. The frame should never compete with the artwork but rather enhance it, creating a harmonious relationship between the two.
Choosing the right frame color is an art in itself, and it requires thoughtful consideration of the artwork’s tone, style, and subject.
Neutral Frames
Neutral frames, such as black, white, or natural wood, are often a safe choice. A black frame, for instance, can lend a modern, minimalist feel to a piece, especially for black-and-white photographs or contemporary art.
White frames, on the other hand, provide a clean, unintrusive backdrop that allows the artwork to shine. These are particularly useful for colorful or vibrant pieces, as they ensure the frame does not detract from the energy of the image.
The black frame with the with mat frames the image and contains it without distracting the viewer. The eye stays within the frame and is free to observe the image, moving across it without distraction.
As always, context and the image itself are key, here a neutral frame with visible woodgrain looks terrible against the high contrast black and white photograph.
The white also doesn’t work here, our eyes are drawn to the lightest part of any picture, here the white of the frame and matt overwhelms the periphery and the frame and mat are competing with the image for attention.
This gold frame again competes for the viewers attention and pulls the eye away from the image.
This thicker black frame works well, the edge detail acts as a frame within a frame and keeps the viewers eye from wandering.
This brown frame with a gold edge feels to ornate. The whole image becomes too busy. Action in the picture, bright white mat, gold edge and brown frame. There is too much going on.
Complementary and Contrasting Colours
More daring choices involve frames that complement or contrast with the colors within the artwork. For example, a dark mahogany frame can accentuate the warmth of an oil painting, while a silver or gold frame can bring out luminous highlights in the artwork. However, caution is required. Too bold a frame can become distracting, pulling focus away from the image rather than enhancing it.
This frame works, the browns of the frame compliment the brown tones in the image.
This frame creates a distraction as the layers of the frame are too lively. The undulations in the wood are too ornate for this picture and create a distraction in the viewers periphery. The purpose of the image is simple, it’s the couples interaction, particularly the brides laugh that is most important. The frame and the mount should compliment this and help the eye zero in on that. This frame is too busy.
Contrasting frame colors can also work in more contemporary settings. A bright, playful print might benefit from a contrasting colored frame to create an exciting dynamic. However, the key is always balance. The frame should provide a counterpoint without overwhelming the picture.
Placing the Artwork Within a Room
Where and how a piece is placed within a room is the final step in the art of framing and display. The space that surrounds an artwork can influence how it is perceived, and the frame plays a key role in integrating the piece into the room’s design.
Height and Spacing
Traditionally, artwork is hung at eye level, where the center of the piece sits about 57-60 inches from the floor. However, this can be adjusted depending on the room’s layout and the purpose of the piece.
Larger artworks can be hung higher to fill a taller wall space, while smaller works may sit comfortably at or slightly below eye level in more intimate settings, such as hallways or above furniture.
The space around the artwork is also crucial. If hung too closely to other pieces or furniture, the artwork might feel cluttered. Allowing enough space between the framed work and its surroundings ensures that it remains the focal point, unobstructed by visual noise.
Integration with Interior Design
The relationship between the frame, artwork, and interior design is a delicate one. The frame acts as a bridge between the artwork and its environment, making placement and color selection critical.
In a room dominated by natural materials, a wooden frame may tie the artwork to its surroundings, creating cohesion. In more modern interiors, sleek metallic or monochrome frames can provide a visual link between contemporary furniture and the art.
Additionally, consider lighting. Proper illumination can transform a piece, highlighting its depth, texture, and color. Natural light enhances artwork during the day, but strategically placed artificial lighting, such as spotlights or picture lights, can elevate a work at any time.
How to choose the right frame size
Choosing the right picture frame size can make all the difference in showcasing your favorite photos or artwork.
Choosing the right size of photo frame depends on where you plan to display them and the visual impact you’re aiming for.
Smaller frames like 4×6 or 5×7 are great for personal spaces or areas with limited wall space. Larger sizes such as 16×20 or 24×36 work best when you want to create a focal point in a room.
1. 4×6 Inches: The Classic Small Frame
One of the most common picture frame sizes, the 4×6 inch frame is perfect for small photos. It’s ideal for displaying personal memories, such as snapshots of family or friends. Use this size for prints from your phone or camera, especially for casual settings like nightstands or shelves.
2. 5×7 Inches: Perfect for Portraits
The 5×7 frame is slightly larger, offering more space for detail in your photographs. This size is ideal for framed picture sizes that showcase portraits or smaller pieces of art. It fits well in personal spaces like bedrooms or home offices, giving a more formal look to individual portraits or family moments.
3. 8×10 Inches: Great for Larger Photos
For larger photos or frame photo sizes that you want to emphasize, the 8×10 inch frame works beautifully. This size is commonly used for framed photographs or small art prints. Use this in living rooms or hallways, where you want to make a bolder statement without overwhelming the space.
4. 11×14 Inches: Matting and Artwork Display
The 11×14 size is versatile and works well for both photographs and artwork. Often, this size is used with a mat to enhance the picture frame dimensions, allowing you to feature smaller photos (like 8×10) with a stylish border. This frame size is perfect for gallery walls or entryways.
5. 12×16 Inches: A Step Up for Artwork
If you’re looking to frame artwork or prints, 12×16 inch photo frame dimensions are excellent. The additional size allows for more visual impact, making this size great for professional prints or detailed photos. Hang these in a living room or gallery space to create a focal point in the room.
6. 16×20 Inches: Statement Piece
When you have a photo or piece of art that you want to stand out, opt for the 16×20 frame. This larger size is often used for wedding portraits, family photos, or larger art pieces. It creates a statement, drawing attention to the subject. Frame sizes for photos like this are perfect for above fireplaces or large blank walls.
7. 20×24 Inches: Large and Bold
The 20×24 frame is perfect for those who want their photos or artwork to dominate a room. Ideal for group photos, landscapes, or substantial art pieces, this standard photo frame dimension works best in larger rooms like living rooms or dining areas. The larger format gives a professional and impactful look to your space.
8. 24×36 Inches: The Showstopper
For those who want to make a significant impact, the 24×36 frame size is a perfect choice. This is one of the largest frame sizes picture used for photographs, posters, or full-sized artwork. It’s ideal for large walls, providing a centerpiece that anchors the room. Use this size in offices, living rooms, or hallways where you want to make a bold statement.
Some general rules for choosing your frame
1. Match the Frame to the Artwork
One of the most important considerations is how the frame interacts with the artwork or photo itself. The frame should complement, not overpower, the piece. Here are some ways to match the frame to your image:
- Neutral Frames: Black, white, and gray frames are timeless and versatile. These frames work well with almost any photo or artwork, providing a clean and simple backdrop that doesn’t compete with the image.
- Wood Tones: Natural wood frames can add warmth and texture, making them ideal for nature photos, family portraits, or rustic decor. Light wood works well with softer colors, while dark wood can create a bold, elegant contrast.
- Metallic Frames: Silver or gold frames add a touch of sophistication and are great for more formal or contemporary pieces. They work particularly well with modern art or black-and-white photos.
2. Consider the Style of the Room
The frame should also complement the decor of the room where it will be displayed. Think about the color scheme, furniture, and overall aesthetic of the space:
- Modern Spaces: Sleek black, white, or metallic frames work well in modern or minimalist interiors. Simple lines and neutral colors can create a clean, streamlined look.
- Traditional Spaces: Ornate or wood-toned frames are perfect for traditional or classic decor. Dark wood frames, such as walnut or mahogany, add warmth and a sense of richness to the room.
- Rustic or Farmhouse Style: Distressed wood or natural finishes blend seamlessly with rustic or farmhouse decor. Lighter, weathered wood frames can soften the look of a room and complement casual, homey spaces.
3. Complement the Colors in the Artwork
To create a harmonious display, choose a frame that complements or contrasts with the dominant colors in the artwork or photo:
- Complementary Colors: Look for frames that match or echo the main colors in the image. For example, a gold frame can enhance warm tones in a sunset photo, while a silver frame may complement cool tones in a landscape.
- Contrasting Colors: For a bold look, choose a frame color that contrasts with the colors in the artwork. For instance, a black frame can create a striking border around a light, pastel-colored photo, making the image pop.
4. Black and White Photos
When framing black-and-white photos, the frame choice can have a big impact:
- Black Frames: A classic choice for black-and-white photos. It creates a sharp, formal look and makes the photo stand out against the background.
- White Frames: White frames give a clean, modern look and are great for keeping the focus on the photo without distraction. They’re especially good for light, airy spaces.
- Metallic Frames: Silver or chrome frames add a contemporary edge to black-and-white photos, making them perfect for modern interiors.
5. Choosing Frame Width
The width of the frame can also influence the overall look of the piece:
- Thin Frames: Best for smaller photos or minimalist looks. Thin frames are subtle and let the artwork shine without drawing too much attention.
- Thick Frames: These work well with larger prints or photos that need a bolder border to stand out. A thick frame adds presence and can anchor the artwork in the room.
6. Consider the Matting
If you’re using a mat, the color and width of the mat will also affect the frame choice. Here are some tips:
- White Mats: A white mat with any frame color is a classic look that creates contrast and draws attention to the image.
- Colored Mats: If using a colored mat, choose a frame that complements the mat and the artwork. For example, a black frame works well with a light-colored mat, while a wood frame can add warmth to a neutral-toned mat.
Conclusion
When choosing a frame color, consider both the artwork and the environment it will be displayed in. Whether you’re looking for a neutral frame that blends seamlessly or a bold option that makes a statement, the right frame color can enhance the overall presentation of your photo or artwork, making it look stylish and well-integrated into your space.