Framing paintings vs photos
Paintings and photos often look best with different framing choices. Here’s a practical way to decide quickly.
Paintings: emphasize texture and presence
- Use slightly thicker frames to match the physical “weight” of paint
- Warm finishes (walnut, gold) often complement traditional painting palettes
- Leave breathing room so brushwork doesn’t feel cramped
Photos: keep edges crisp and contrast clean
- Thin to medium frames work well for a gallery look
- Black/white frames help control contrast and color cast
- Match frame color to dominant tones (or go neutral)
Fast rule of thumb
If the image is highly detailed or contrasty (common in photography), start with a thinner frame. If the image has texture, softer edges, or traditional subject matter (common in painting), start slightly thicker and warmer.