Some say that a picture is never completed until it is properly framed. This is because an image without a frame is unconfined and difficult to appreciate as a whole.
A picture can be vastly improved by surrounding it with an attractive frame that not only draws the eye to the image but also creates a sense of importance. No matter how well a picture is framed, it will lose impact unless it is displayed in sympathetic surroundings.
A picture will only look its best if it is in harmony with the setting.
Consider the following:
Your Decor
Colour Considerations
Lighting and Mood
The Lasting Qualities
Picture frames should be designed to complement the work of the photographer or artist. Framing materials vary in quality, cost, framing methods and also vary in the time required for framing. Make sure you get your moneys worth by getting the best of quality at reasonable prices.
Before Framing:
Most ink and paper companies claim that their products dry instantly - this means that they are dry to touch. If you print your own images there are a few important points to follow before framing.
1 - allow you prints to rest for 15 minutes after printing.
2 - after 15 minutes place a sheet of white paper over the print - use standard paper, dont use photographic paper. The paper acts as a sponge absorbing the outgoing gasses from the printing process. Allow this process to continue for twenty-four hours.
3 - if the plain paper is crimped once
removed, repeat the process for another
twenty-four hours. If not, your image
is ready for framing.
Photographer TJ Tierney also writes for the photography site www.goldprints.com