Black and white photographs have remained beloved since their inception almost 150 years ago. The capability of black and white images to fit many decorating styles has contributed to their increased popularity. As such, population have come to be more open to alternative, more sophisticated framing designs for these items.
How to best frame a black and white photo is a branch for much conjecture. Plain and simple to take nothing from the art, or more ornate to complement the branch matter? Add colour in the frame establish to help draw the eye to the picture, or stick with a rigid two-tone advent to ensure dramatic elegance?
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So where does that leave us? Well to be honest somewhere in the middle. The fact is that there is as much range in black and white photography as in any other art form. Think of it this way, if we asked every person to dress in the same way the look would suit a few but be terrible for most. However, there are some simple rules and techniques you should keep in mind when framing black and white photographs.
Tips on Framing Black & White Photography
- Some framers believe a pristine white mount is best for all black and white images, on the basis that it does not detract from the photo itself. However, for pictures with a white focal point, a pristine white mount can be too lively and will compete with the image for attention.
- an additional one tasteless mistake is to try to 'lighten' dark art by surrounding it with a light mount. In reality, a light mount border causes the dark colours in the photo to look even darker.
- Mounts should be black, white or grey. Any other colour adds an element that isn't gift in the picture. If you have a customer who insists on a colourful mount, a tasteless recommendation is to go for a white mat with a small accent of colour as a second mount. However, this accent easily pulls the eye away from the photo. A great solution is to use the colour as the celebrated top mount and place the accent of black or grey below it to work as a transition into the photo. With all that colour surrounding the photo it isolates the image, in affect, drawing attentiveness to it.
- When it comes to the moulding, reconsider the era, style and location of the photograph. As in framing any art piece, each frame must heighten the style and mood of the photo itself. Many framers believe you should stick to a narrow, basic frame for black and white photographs, but this may not co-ordinate with the branch of the photo. For example, a photo of an ornate piece of architecture may look great with a more classical moulding design.
- Elongation is often a good treatment for portrait photographs, images with vertical subjects or strong vertical lines. By development the top and bottom borders wider, it dramatises all those vertical elements.
- A mountslip which matches the moulding can generate a strong, first-rate figure around the photograph. This helps pull the viewer's attentiveness in from the frame to focus on the picture. Mountslips can also help heighten the customised appearance of the design, adding character and perceived value.
When any item is framed properly the frame establish should add a sense of value to the concluded product. So a good frame establish will help a mediocre shot look good and an unimaginative framing job will bring even the best photo to the level of a cheap poster.
Remember, just because the branch lacks colour doesn't mean the framing should lack imagination.
For more help or to discuss any of the points raised above please do not hesitate to touch us or visit us in person.
Tips on Framing Black & White Photography
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