The Best Wooden Picture Frames

Buying Guide

Although technology has changed the way photos are taken and stored, there’s still an interest in print photographs. In fact, even younger generations are printing and displaying print photographs as their ancestors once did.

Picture frames have long been a popular way to display your print photos. The right frame can help you show off your favorite images around the house or at the office. But frames also shield those photos from elements that can break down the gelatin layer that helps protect modern prints. Pollution and moisture can deteriorate that shield over time, causing the image to fade.

When looking for a picture frame, you might not prioritize the glass that covers the picture, but it can help protect the precious momento beneath it. Both glass and acrylic keep outside elements out, but glass can look classier and provide better visibility. For extra-special keepsakes that you don’t have in digital format, you can buy frames with glass designed to shield the items beneath from UV rays, which offers an extra layer of protection.

The frame around your photo is an important consideration, as well. It can be tempting to look for one that enhances the decor of the area where it will be stored, but complementing the photo should be top priority. If your photo has warmer tones like brown and orange, darker wood frames will likely be the best choice, but for cooler tones like blue and green, stick with lighter woods.

The design of the frame is something else to consider. You can find rustic frames, ornamental frames and frames that have a simple classic wood look. This is where you can choose a frame that matches your decor. You’ll also find picture frames with slimmer profiles that don’t stand out as much. If your space has a modern theme, choose one in solid black or white (instead of basic wood shades) to complement that aesthetic.

• One of the top things to consider when shopping for a frame is the size of the image or item you want to put inside it. Prints are measured in inches and come in many sizes, from 4 by 6 inches and 8 by 10 inches to 18 by 24 inches and 24 by 36 inches. The smaller frames are the most popular, but if you’re framing a degree, artwork or some other non-photo item, you may find yourself shopping for larger sizes.
• The glass that shields the photo can sometimes obscure your view. Some come with high-definition glass that helps optimize the images beneath.
• Frames have a protective backing that holds the photo in place. This should should be made of a material that won’t damage the photo. It is usually held in place by metal prongs that you pry back to slide the photo inside. Some are easier to pull back than others, so you might want to keep a screwdriver or other tool handy.
• Most modern prints will have an original in digital format somewhere. Make sure those are backed up regularly. If you have keepsakes in print format only, consider scanning them and adding them to your backed-up files so that you’re protected against loss and fading.
• If you have enough wall space, you can buy multiples of the same frame and create a wall collage. This helps show off your creativity while also displaying your favorite photos. Some frames are sold in sets for this very purpose, although you can also purchase these sets and spread the frames around a room or entire home.
• Check out whether a frame is made from solid wood, composite wood or some other material. Solid wood can be pricier and heavier, and there are other options that offer the same look.
• With most photo frames, the backing has an easel that lets you set it up horizontally or vertically. Many also come with a hanger that lets you mount it to the wall. If you plan on going this route, make sure you’ll have the tools and hardware necessary to hang it.