In my previous blog I touted the benefits of framing your prize-winning photos and working with mats to help your images take on a professional quality. I mentioned that there are three basic tips you should keep in mind prior to choosing the perfect mat for your frame: color, quality and size. In this blog I’d like to spend more time going in-depth about the color of your mat.
Different color mats can alter the look of your image in a variety of ways. For example, dark mats pop on light walls, and light mats pop on dark walls. Also, dark mats will often control your framed photo, while light mats will help intensify it. Framing experts will tell you that light colored mats often “open up the picture” and make it seem larger. While dark colored mats often turn the eye inward, making the picture seem smaller.
As far as color matching goes, well, I find that to be the most challenging part of framing. For a long time I struggled with trying to determine if my mat should complement the wall color or the photo. Both are important, but after taking a framing workshop I learned when push comes to shove it’s best to match the mat to the photo first. Also, when choosing mat colors, go no lighter than the lightest color within your image, no darker than the darkest and no brighter than the brightest… you get the idea. Basically, you don’t want your mat to outshine your photograph.
If you are framing a black and white picture, experts recommend sticking with an off-white outer mat and a black inner mat. Neutral colors, like whites and blacks, tend to be safe and effective choices. Not only do they allow the colors in your picture to remain the focus, but they also complement any decor.
Related Articles:
Framing Your Favorite Photos–Choosing the Right Mat
Creating A Fabulous Photo Wall
More Common Sense Tips To Capturing A Frame-Worthy Picture
Common Sense Tips To Capturing Frame-Worthy Pictures
Snapping Frameworthy Shots Of Your Kids