Newborn photographs get taken in enormous numbers and framed almost never. A small amount of planning turns a folder of files into something that actually lives on a wall.
Start with the wall, not the frame
Decide where the photos will hang before choosing sizes. A narrow hallway suits a vertical column of small frames. A wide wall above a sideboard suits one large piece, or a grid.
Measure the space and lay newspaper templates on the floor first. It takes ten minutes and prevents a wall full of unnecessary holes.
Sizes that work together
Australian standard photo sizes include 6x4, 7x5, 8x6, A4, 11x14 and A3. Mixing a few sizes from this set looks intentional; mixing unusual sizes looks accidental and costs more to frame.
A common approach for a gallery wall is one larger anchor image with four to six smaller ones around it, all in the same frame finish.
Why a mat board matters
The mat is the card border between the photo and the frame. It does two things: it gives the image visual breathing room, and it holds the print away from the glass, which prevents sticking over time in humid conditions.
A wider mat generally looks more considered than a narrow one. Neutral white, off-white or soft grey suits almost every photograph, and lets the image carry the colour.
Materials
- Timber frames suit nursery and family settings, and forgive small imperfections in a wall.
- Metal frames are slimmer and more contemporary.
- Glass is clearer and more scratch resistant.
- Acrylic is lighter and shatter resistant, which matters for anything hanging in or near a child's room.
For a nursery, acrylic on a securely mounted frame is the sensible combination.
Protecting prints from fading
Australian light is harsh, and direct sun will fade a photograph within a year or two. Three things help:
- Hang away from direct sunlight, especially north and west-facing windows
- Ask for UV-filtering glazing, which is widely available
- Use quality printing, since cheap prints fade regardless of the frame
Keep the original files backed up in two places. The frame protects one print, not the memory.
Hanging safely near children
Never hang a frame above a cot or a change table. Use proper wall fixings rated well above the frame's weight, and check them occasionally. In a child's room, prefer lightweight frames with acrylic glazing.
Frequently asked questions
Should I frame in colour or black and white?
Black and white ages well and unifies photographs taken in different lighting, which is why it suits gallery walls. Colour suits a single anchor image.
What about hospital tags and hand prints?
Box frames with depth are made for this, and hold three-dimensional keepsakes alongside a photograph.
Can I frame a photo myself?
For standard sizes, ready-made frames work well. Custom sizes, unusual proportions or valuable prints are worth having framed properly.
Custom framing
We offer custom picture framing alongside our baby range, including box frames for keepsakes. Bring your prints to our Peakhurst showroom and we can work through sizes and mats with you.