Get Your Pictures On The Wall
by 
If you're like many amateur photographers, your pictures don't get much exposure... in your home, that is. Many of your good shots are packed away in drawers and closets, not on the wall, where they belong.
Your home should reflect your personality with a selection of photographs to complement the other furnishings in your rooms. Your own pictures and those of other photographers whose work you admire will add to the decor of your home and your enjoyment of it.
Of course, attractive matting and framing enhances the presentation of a photograph. Pre-cut mats in standard sizes can be purchased from most art supply or camera shops. You can also buy inexpensive mat cutters, and with a little practice you'll be cutting your own professional looking mats.
Simply measure equal borders around your already mounted photograph and carefully cut your mat. Make sure the blades are sharp and use fine sandpaper or an emery board to eliminate any rough spots on the edges. To produce a collage of pictures, perhaps of the entire family, just cut as many "windows" out of the mat board as you will need. Then tape each picture to the board from behind and back them with another piece of mat board. You are now ready to add a frame.
Frames come in many styles, colors and prices. For photography, simplicity is the best guideline.
Plain metal frames don't draw attention away from the impact of the photograph, and at the same time they lend a complementary finishing touch to your picture. Metal frame kits are available in all photo, art supply and frame shops. Purchase sections in the lengths you need and your frame can be assembled easily in a matter of minutes.
Be sure to use glass, too. Glass not only protects your photograph, but also adds to the appearance of your finished work. Regular, single-strength glass works best. Non-glare glass reduces the "snap" of your photo and makes the colors appear dull.
Other types of frames are available. Plain wood frames will enhance many photographs, while more modern Lucite frames will add a contemporary touch.
Most pictures look best when hung at eye level. Try a grouping over a large piece of furniture such as a sofa, buffet, or a fireplace. Place a larger picture in the center, surrounded by a few smaller ones.
Hanging photographs in your home not only decorates your rooms, but by seeing them daily, also encourages your photographic growth.