subject: The Right Metal Picture Frame For Your Art Photography [print this page] While paintings are traditionally framed in wood, art photography usually calls for metal picture frames. However, you'll want to be careful about the metal picture frame that you use; the wrong metal picture frame can greatly detract from the artifact.
It's also important to understand that there is much more to protecting and displaying an art photograph than a metal picture frame by itself.
Getting Started
If you are new to the metal picture framing process, you may wish to consider metal picture frame kits. Framing a picture is an involved process that requires a fair amount of skill; however, with metal picture framing kits, much of the work is done for you. The only limitation with such kits is that your photos must be of a standard size and ratio.
That said, the contents of metal picture framing kits include:
mount board
photo corners
mat board
a metal picture frame
glazing
This is what is required in order to make your metal picture framing project a success.
Putting It Together
The first step will be to attach the photo to the mount board, using photo corners. These corners are self-adhesive, and will serve to hold your photo in place.
Next, mat board is placed over the photo to prevent physical contact with the glazing, which fits over the top in order to protect the photo from the environment and direct sunlight.
It is important to select a kit with materials that are acid-free, as acids can cause considerable damage to photographs over time.
Choosing The Right Metal Picture Frames
Metal picture frames come in a range of styles and colors. When choosing a metal picture frame (whether on its own or as part of a kit), you'll want to take into consideration the dcor of the room in which it is to be displayed as well as lighting and other colors in the space. Generally, a black metal picture frame goes with almost anything, but there may be times when another color is more appropriate. There are no hard-and-fast rules, here; let your own sense of aesthetics guide you.
Costs
Although the price of metals have been rising steadily over the past few years, metal picture frames are still less than comparable wooden frames. Chances are, you'll have little trouble finding a metal picture frame that fits your budget.
