How to Arrange Photo Frames
Whether it's a display documenting your family or a collection of artistic pictures, there are several decisions you must make and pointers to keep in mind to create a striking arrangement of framed photographs. Decide on the location and level for your arrangement. Choose a common element to tie the display together. Finally, carefully plan the placement of each piece before you begin the job of hanging your photos. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Select the location for your framed photo arrangement. You will want to choose an area with good lighting--either natural or artificial--to properly highlight each item and allow viewers to enjoy your display.
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Determine the type of arrangement you want to hang. Several possibilities include a staircase, ledge or gallery-type display. A staircase display will run in a diagonal pattern at the same angle as your staircase. With a ledge display, you hang several shelves and arrange your photos, which can be showcased in a variety of frames. The most common arrangement is a gallery display where you create a collage of photo frames on a prominent wall.
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Choose a common theme--such as complementary subject matter, a similar frame color/style or a symmetrical wall design--to make your arrangement more cohesive.
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Plan your arrangement carefully before you actually hang any pictures. Planning may involve using graph paper to lay out the design, or you may elect to place your frames on a sheet, moving the items around until you have created an aesthetically pleasing design.
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Hang your photos. Exact measurements and use of a picture hanging level will ensure that your arrangement has a professional appearance. According to Instructables.com, this "step is key, because it is very difficult to change the frame order and placement" once you actually begin hanging frames.
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Rearrange your frames until you are satisfied with the design.
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Tips & Warnings
Photos are most effective when hung at eye level.
An interesting display combines frames of different sizes, hung both vertically and horizontally.
Better Homes and Gardens points out that "maintaining balance is important because an unbalanced arrangement may look top-heavy, bottom-heavy, or as if a side is falling off."
