Framing Photography: How to Protect and Present Your Photos Like a Pro

When you framing photography, the process of mounting and enclosing photographic prints in a protective and decorative border to enhance display and preserve the image. Also known as photo framing, it’s not just about putting glass over a picture—it’s about giving your work dignity, longevity, and presence. A poorly framed photo can fade, warp, or look cheap. A well-framed one? It becomes part of the room, not just something on the wall.

What you put around your photo matters more than you think. matting, the acid-free board placed between the photo and the glass to create breathing room and visual separation prevents the image from touching the glass, which stops condensation damage. UV-protective glass, a special type of glazing that blocks harmful sunlight rays that cause colors to fade over time isn’t optional if you care about your work lasting decades. And the frame itself? It shouldn’t compete with the photo—it should support it. Wood, metal, or shadow box? Each changes the mood. A dark wood frame gives weight to a black-and-white landscape. A thin metal frame makes a street photo feel modern and sharp.

You don’t need to spend a fortune, but cutting corners will cost you later. Skip the hardware store frames with flimsy backing and cheap plastic. Look for archival materials. Ask your printer if they offer ready-made framing solutions—they often do, and they know what works with their ink and paper. If you’re framing prints from your own camera, consider how the lighting in your home affects the piece. A photo near a window needs UV glass. A photo in a dim hallway benefits from a matte finish to cut glare.

This collection of posts dives into what makes photography truly stand out—not just how it’s shot, but how it’s shown. You’ll find guides on choosing the right paper for prints, understanding the difference between posters and real art prints, and even how to avoid common framing mistakes that ruin otherwise great photos. Whether you’re a beginner who just printed their first landscape or a seasoned shooter ready to exhibit, the right frame turns effort into legacy.