Choosing the best among the different types of frames can transform a simple photograph into a work of art that will look great on any wall, mantel, or tabletop.
However, with so many various picture frames, how do you decide which is best for your photo or space?
Below is a list of the best types of frames, their best uses, and the best places to display them, from standard to gallery style.
Several different types of photo frames are available in different colors and materials. Many contain elements designed to draw attention to a particular photograph or memory.
This guide can help you narrow down the many options available so you can make the best decorative decision possible.
1. Collage Frame
This is one of the best different types of frames. If you want to show several images in one location, you will need a collage frame.
A collage frame normally contains three to thirty separate pictures, but there is no limit, and if you have a large area to fill, you may be able to locate a collage frame that holds even more photos.
A collage frame is an alternative to purchasing several separate picture frames and may be used to accommodate entirely unrelated photographs.
Nevertheless, most people will choose a sequence of photos to fit in a collage frame so that there is a common theme connecting them. For example, you may show a collection of images from a family vacation or a wedding reception.
2. Floating Frame
A floating frame is made of glass or acrylic and is covered by another piece of glass or acrylic. Since you can see straight through the frame to whatever is behind it, such as your wallpaper or a painted wall, the item you are framing appears to float on the wall.
These often provide a highly modern look in a room and effectively complement minimalist décor. They also maintain a very neutral aesthetic by not adding any additional colors or patterns to the frame.
3. Digital Frame
People want to have their various digital images on display; therefore, digital frames have grown in popularity in recent years.
These frames can contain memory capacity so that you can permanently download your images onto them, or they can include a memory card slot instead. These frames feature a variety of settings that may be customized based on the user’s preferences.
You may choose to have a different photo displayed each day, with the frame rotating the photo every 24 hours.
You can also rotate the photographs every few minutes so that every time you glance back at the frame, you see a different memory. The options are virtually limitless, depending on the kind of digital frame you choose.
These frames can be powered by batteries that must be replaced or recharged. They can also be plug-in frames that run on mains electricity.
4. Poster Frame
A poster frame is among the different types of frames that are often big and rectangular, and it is required to show a poster or a large picture of art. These frames are often not extremely fancy, allowing attention to be paid to the artwork.
These frames can have a basic frame around the edge, but they are typically frameless. The poster is covered by a piece of glass held in place by discrete clips.
5. Shadow Box Frame
This type of frame is quite deep, making it excellent for showing non-flat items. People generally use these types of frames to display mementos or emotional things.
The frame protects and secures the items, and because they are covered with glass, they are kept and will not grow dusty over time as they would if merely exhibited on a shelf.
Medals, sports memorabilia, baby shoes, jewelry, and clay handprints are all common exhibits in shadow box frames, which come in a variety of forms, styles, and sizes.
Ensure the frame is deep enough so your goods do not touch the glass. Pins, glue, or double-sided tape can organize and secure items.
These frames may also be used to display pictures, postcards, or other flat things, making them appear in a glass case rather than a frame.
6. Document Frame
A document frame is a precise size designed to display significant papers such as prizes and diplomas. You’d find These types of frames at a doctor’s or lawyer’s office. They usually use basic patterns and classic colors to keep the paper looking professional.
7. Decorative Frame
Instead of simple, decorative frames feature photos, sayings, and even 3D components that make the frame stand out.
It’s exciting to pick a beautiful frame that matches the topic of the image you’re planning to display. This makes the picture and frame appear to be a cohesive entity.
With so many colorful frames to pick from, you may easily choose one that matches the hobbies or interests of the receiver.
8. Standard Frame
Standard frames are one of the best different types of frames. It will look fantastic in any house or business. They are often plain and solid in color, so they do not detract from the displayed image.
These frames come in several sizes and styles and aren’t simply black or silver. They may also be found in bright colors, making it enjoyable to mix and match while decorating.
Even brighter frames will not detract from the image or artwork shown and can even assist its components in standing out.
9. Tabletop Frame
A tabletop frame typically has a foldable stand that can be brought out from the back and used as a leg to rest on. As a result, these frames are great for exhibiting on surfaces such as shelves, countertops, and side tables.
In certain situations, the folding stand will be adjustable, allowing you to determine the angle at which the frame will stand, but this is not a regular feature.
Tabletop frames may not necessarily have folding supports but might instead be bulky, permitting them to stand upright without one.
In this situation, the frame will resemble a block. Often, a frame will include both a folding stand and hardware to allow the frame to be hung, allowing you to choose between the two display options.
However, you should always check how much the folding stand protrudes from the back of the frame because if it is quite thick, it may indicate that the frame will not sit flush against the wall.
These stands also impact the weight of the frame since they are heavier on one side. This makes it harder to keep them straight on the wall because they tend to tilt to the heavier side.
10. Gallery Frame
These picture frames are similarly simple in style, with plain, solid materials, but they use a mat to make a photograph stand out.
This double-frame technique focuses the viewer’s attention on what’s inside. As the name implies, gallery frames perform best when grouped on a wall to create a museum-like look for unique images.
Mixing and mixing gallery frames of different sizes and finishes may create a unique display that is excellent for accent walls, stairwells, or hallways.
11. Leaning Frame
Leaning frames do not have any attachments on the back since they are designed to lean on a surface for support.
With the growing popularity of picture shelves in recent years, the sale of leaning frames has risen. These frames are lined up on a shelf and leaned on the wall behind them.
If you have a large leaning frame, you might display it on the floor by placing it near a wall and allowing it to lean against the wall for support.
These frames appear casual and effortless, a highly modern and attractive way to show prints or images.
12. Hanging Frame
Hanging frames are among the best different types of frames. They may feature a single metal hook in the center of the top that may latch straight onto a nail or screw in the wall.
Alternatively, they may feature two metal loops, one at each end, that can be connected with picture wire or rope and hung over a nail or screw in the wall.
If your frame can be hung on a tabletop, but you choose to hang it, you may need to make some changes to ensure it rests flat on the wall and does not tilt to one side.
If you have a frame that does not contain the hardware for hanging, such as a frame meant for leaning against a surface, you may still hang it if you choose.
In this case, you may attach your hardware to the back of the frame or use devices that utilize adhesive to bind tape to the back of your frame and tape to the wall.
These items often use Velcro or another sort of fastener to keep frames securely in place without the need for a screw or nail in the wall.
These are especially beneficial if you live in a rented apartment and cannot drill holes in the walls.
