How to Frame a Dark Picture

One simple way to dramatically affect the appearance of a photograph or piece of artwork is to frame it in a manner that accentuates the tones within the picture. Framing a picture involves selecting a frame of a certain color and material and possibly selecting a mat as well. If you have a dark picture, choose a frame and a mat that break up the darkness of the picture, but also avoid making too drastic of a contrast between the picture and the frame.

Instructions

- 1
  Place a mat on top of the picture. Use a mat that is slightly lighter than the colors in the picture but slightly darker than the wall. This adds a visually pleasing contrast to the picture.
- 2
  Look at the mat and the picture to analyze the color combination. The color of the mat should complement the colors in the picture. For example, consider a picture that features dark shades of green, brown and black. In this instance, choose a tan-colored mat.
- 3
  Place the picture and the mat in a frame that is similar in color to the tones in the picture. Various shades of black or gray usually work well with dark pictures. Bright colors may create a contrast that is distracting.
- 4
  Frame the picture in a frame that is appropriate in size in terms of where you will display it. For example, if you have a large area above a couch, use a large frame and mat to feature your dark picture. Even if the picture is on the smaller side, a large frame and mat will bring it into focus.

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