Oval frames are a unique and decorative way to display any portrait. However, not all portraits work well in oval picture frames. To help you make the best picture selection for your oval frame there are three questions you should ask:
Question #1: What type of picture do you want your oval frame for?
The first thing you should think about is what type of photo you want to display- is it a portrait, a candid, a landscape or a still life photo? Oval picture frames almost always look best with portraits of people in them. Oval picture frames are meant to beautifully highlight a formal picture and are generally not suitable for informal candid shots. The simplicity of the oval shape frame lends elegance to the image it frames which is why a picture with one or two people grouped closely together is usually best. However, you can have a picture of a group and still have it look nice in an oval frame as long as it’s not cropped too tightly.
If you’re considering an oval frame but aren’t quite sure it will look good, you should get an oval picture frame mat (or cut a sheet of paper into the shape of an oval) and place it over the picture. You’ll know immediately if you like the oval shape with your picture. If it looks good, now you just have to choose your oval frame. If it doesn’t, search for a different frame shape.
Question #2: What kind of oval frame do you want?
In addition to the type of photo you want to frame, you should also consider where you plan to display your oval frame. Before you get an oval frame, always know how you want to display it. Do you want to display it on a table or dresser or hang it on the wall? Always check the oval frame to see how it can be displayed before you buy it because most ovals are designed to be either wall frames or table top frames but not both. This often overlooked step is important to help you properly narrow down your frame selection.
Next thing to consider is the type of material and style. There are a lot of choices when it comes to styles of oval picture frames. Do you want a metal frame or a wood picture frame? With wood oval frames, there are varying degrees of decoration depending upon the type of wood frame. Solid wood oval frames usually come with little to no decoration on the frame while composite wood frames generally have more ornamentation on the frame because the composite wood is easier to mold. Oval wood picture frames are usually most popular in rich wood tones like vintage walnut, rosewood and cherry or antique colors like gold or silver.
Metal oval picture frames are another option but they are often made for displaying on table tops instead of hanging on a wall. Metal oval frames are easy to find in smaller sizes and are usually adorned with decorative features like decorative metal work, beads or crystals. If you’re looking for a quality, well made frame you should consider a solid pewter, silver plate or sterling silver picture frame. These frames will be more expensive than aluminum or metal alloy oval frames but they will last a long time and be enjoyed for many years.
The picture you want to frame and your personal style preferences are ultimately what determine what oval picture frame is best for you. However, don’t make the mistake of selecting a frame you love without any consideration to how the photo will look.
Question #3: What oval frame style does your photo go best with?
The best place to start when selecting a frame if often to start with the color of the frame. Here is a good general rule of thumb for selecting a color:
Once you’ve narrowed down the color, it’s important to know which styles will complement your picture. But first, let’s get a good understanding of the different styles of oval frames and how they best meet different needs.
Photos of women always look great in a feminine looking frame. A feminine look can be anything from flowery ornamentation to decorative features on the top and bottom of the frame or a decorative edge like beading outlining the oval shape of the frame. A feminine look tends to have a traditional or classic appearance.
For pictures of men or boys, you will want a more masculine look so consider a classic plain oval frame with no ornamentation or decorative edging. However, for a young boys picture, a small amount of decoration on the frame can highlight the photo nicely.
Black and white, sepia or any picture with an old-fashioned look will blend beautifully with an antique style of frame. These frames have some type of ornamentation around the exterior of the frame to give it a traditional or antique look. Many antique picture frames have a dark underlying color around the ornamentation to give it an aged look that helps to accentuate the decorative features.
With so many colors and styles, make sure to choose a frame that complements both your photo and your home’s decor. Once you’ve answered these questions, you should have everything you need to choose the right oval picture frame for your photo.
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