Framing Prints

Although we can supply prints fully framed, we find most people prefer to choose their own frames to fit their decor and tastes. The sizes and prices page has information on obtaining your own prints, both matted and un-matted.

We have also collected some information and resources about the art of picture framing.

Some framing tips

Good framing enhances your pictures, while bad framing just well ... looks bad. The ideal framing enhances your picture and draws the eye to the image. Unless you are advertising picture frames, the framing should take second place.

Take care of your images. if you are using glass, then make sure that there is a slight air gap - this is where the mat comes in.

Choose your glass with care. Anti-reflection or non-glare glass and UV filtering glass may be appropriate for some locations. In Keith's recent Landscape exhibition, there were several places where anti-glare glass might have helped.

If you plan on moving your framed pictures to different locations, consider plastic (Perspex or Plexiglass) for the glazing. With the big frames (most @ 33"x26") in the RAC exhibition (below), two of the glass panes cracked, which is dangerous as well as annoying...

Don't be stingy with your mat border size - small borders rarely enhance the image.

Also, how are you going to hang the pictures? With larger frame sizes it is important to consider this - can the wall safely take the fittings you want to use? Always best to consider -before- you take the pictures for hanging ...

How do you measure frames?

Frames are always measured from the inside (rabbet) of the frame. That is the size of a piece of glass that will fit in the frame. The actual size of the frame is 1/8" larger than indicated to allow room around the glass, mats, image etc. The actual rabbet size of an 8" x 10 " frame is 8 1/8" x 10 1/8".

How do you measure mats?

Picture frame matt

Mats are measured at the outside. They are not measured by the size of the cutout (hole). When determining what size matt you need remember that the mat must cover the artwork or photograph. If your artwork is 8 x 10 you need a mat with an opening of at least 1/8" smaller.

Framing info

http://www.danielsmith.net/learn /inksmith/ 200301/
Archival matting and framing

http://www.americanframe.com/
Framing supplies - good online catalogue

http://www.logangraphic.com/how-to/
Useful info from Logan on mat cutting and equipment

http://carbonphoto.cicada.com /pdf/ opticalcentre.pdf
When mounting prints they should be positioned at the Optical centre of the frame. This is a point slightly above the true centre of the page which will not appear 'low' as the geometric centre does. The PDF file above gives a simple way of finding this.

http://www.normankoren.com /matting_framing.html
Framing information, with some practical tips

Other areas of our site that may be of interest...

Digital Black and White photography and printing. Based on a magazine interview with Keith. Some of his thoughts, techniques and tips for those interested in a digital approach to black and white. There is a growing collection of Photography Articles and Photographic equipment and software reviews on the site aimed at helping you get the best out of your own photography.

There are even more images in the updated gallery of landscape photography and fine art prints

Northlight Images is based in the UK and supplies Commercial Photography services, Photography training and Colour Management Consultancy.

Tel +44 116 2919092 or use the Contact Form

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