Camera Problems | How to Choose an Oval Frame

How to Choose an Oval Frame

Posted on October 30, 2009
Filed Under Camera Problems, Canon Problems | Leave a Comment

Oval picture frames are a decorative and unique way to display any portrait or favorite photo. 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 consider is the type of photo you want to display- is it a portrait, a candid, a landscape or still life photo? Oval picture frames almost always look best with portraits of people in them. Oval frames are best used to highlight a formal picture or portrait and usually don’t look good with informal candid photos. 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 portrait of a group and still have it look nice.

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 look good then it’s time to search for a different shaped frame.

Question #2: What type of oval picture frame do you want?

Along with what you want to display, you should also consider where you want to display your oval picture 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 is an important (and often overlooked) step that will help you narrow down your 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 wood picture frame or a metal one? With oval wood frames, there amount of decorative ornamentation on the frame will vary 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 frames are another option, but are commonly designed for table top displays instead of wall picture frames. 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 the metal alloy or aluminum oval frames however they will stand the test of time and be enjoyed for 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 choosing an oval frame you like without considering what picture you want to display in it.

Question #3: What frame style does your picture 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 selected your color, you’ll now need to determine the type of style that will best complement your photo. But first, let’s get a basic understanding of the basic styles of oval frames and how they suit different needs.

Pictures of women will look great in a feminine looking oval 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. Most feminine looking oval frames tend to have a traditional or classic style.

For photos of men or boys, you’ll want a simple classic oval frame with little or no decorative ornamentation on it so the frame has a more masculine appearance. However, for a young boys picture, a small amount of decoration on the frame can highlight the photo nicely.

Black and white, sepia and any other old fashioned looking photos will go beautifully in an antique style oval 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’ll have the information you need to find the perfect oval picture frame for your favorite photo.

 


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