How to Pick the Color of Frames for Black and White Pictures

Framing pictures isn't just about finding a frame that fits the picture. Colors of the room and the picture need to be considered, as well as the theme of the picture and the room in which it's going to be displayed. Picking the color of frames for black and white pictures is all about finding the right contrast and compliment to frame, room and picture.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Use a frame that's a different color than the wall on which the picture will be displayed. A yellow frame displayed on a yellow wall will disappear if the colors are similar or clash if they're different.

2. Pull the frame across the entire picture to see how the colors work together. If all you see when you move the frame across the picture is the frame, it's colors are too strong for the picture. The frame color will overshadow the colors in the picture.

3. Look for frames that bring out shades in the picture when you pull it across. In black and white photography, a lot of the detail is in shadow and light techniques, so look for frames that enhance those subtle changes in light within the photograph.

4. Choose frames that have accents that will bring out both the picture and the room. If you have gold or silver decorations in the room where you'll be displaying the picture, find a frame with subtle accents in the same tone that will tie the room together without overpowering the picture.

5. Bring out the theme of the photograph with its frame. If the black and white picture is a Western scene, look for frames that look more antique or rustic. If the photograph is more modern, use frames that are more angular and up-to-date.

Resources

• Have your black and white pictures framed by the experts.