Hello everyone!
Today I wanted to share with you a few of my top tips for displaying your photographs throughout your home. As a photographer this is one of my favorite ways to decorate. First it’s because, well, it’s what I do and displaying my art work just makes me happy. Secondly, and more importantly it’s because each photograph displayed brings up a fond and joyous memory each time I pass by it. So displaying images throughout my house ultimately brings a smile across my face and we could always use more of that!
TIP #1 PLAN AHEAD WITH YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER .
What do you really want to walk away with from your photo shoot?
Is it 8×12 prints, albums, or an enlargement to hang over your living room couch?
Where do you want to place your images in your house?
These are all some of the questions to ask yourself before a photoshoot. Why? Well, this can affect how the final outcome will be and how well your images flow with the decor of your house. For example, if you you have chosen blue as your accent color in your home then you may want to bring outfits to compliment that color scheme. Think of a classic denim look or varying shades blue like navy with creams, and tans. This will ensure your images don’t clash with your home. My advice is to discuss this with your photographer and ask them what products they offer. Maybe ask if they have locations that match your houses style. If you are urban and modern then go downtown, or maybe you live on a farm, then definitely go outside! Ultimately, it’s all about getting the most out of your photo shoot!
TIP #2 Everybody needs an easel. . .
I feel like easels are really overlooked. Most people think of a framed print, but whenever a photograph is placed in a white mat it transforms it into a stand alone item. All you need is a small easel to display your images wherever you want! They come in so many cute colors and textures for every type of style out there! Plus you can switch the images out each month if you have purchased a Folio Box. You can find these at Michaels Craft Store, Hobby Lobby or Amazon.
Easels are such a nice alternative to frames because of how easy it is to switch out the photographs. They pair perfectly with the products I offer my clients, and they never get tired of displaying their new “favorite” picture of the month. . . or week! You can get them for as little as $7.00 and place them in the little nooks and crannies all over your home that need a little “pick me up”.
TIP #3 THE RULE OF THIRDS
It’s a perfect formula every time! For each picture placed on a shelf there should be two complimentary objects. (That’s as mathematical as I get.)
REALLY THOUGH. It works. So let’s say you have a senior portrait displayed on a shelf in a ravishing frame. I would pair a flower arrangement (probably fake let’s be honest) and beautifully scented, smaller candle. Have a family picture you love? Frame it and place it with a cute family quote or Bible verse with a matching family heirloom like grandma’s vase or great grandpas clock.
Another helpful thing to keep in mind is balance. If you have a horizontal frame place a plant that is a little taller to keep things visually appealing. I also use my third piece as an accent piece. This usually means it’s a little smaller and adds depth to the display. Plus it never hurts when it smells good!
TIP #4 DESIGN IT BEFORE YOU BUY IT
This is my favorite tip because at my studio I am now offering a new service to my clients! They bring in a picture of the wall they wish to decorate in their home, and I can arrange their pictures in different framing and sizes on that wall before they actually buy it. It’s complimentary to each client and is now added to their Reveal Day. It’s a perfect way to visualize what their walls can look like with their very own photographs. Plus it takes all the guess work out of it.
I know how hard it can be to gather all your pictures, print them, mat and frame them, and then you have to design a layout and finally hang your photos up. It is so time consuming and most people want the finished product, but don’t have the time to deal with it all. Now you have the opportunity to come in and let someone else take care of all that work so you can enjoy your pictures.
TIP #5 WHATEVER YOU DO. . . PRINT IT.
That’s my top tip right there! Having a digital version of our pictures is a great thing, and I am a huge fan of it! But don’t forget that using your photographs for decoration is the whole point of getting your picture taken in the first place. It’s a guaranteed way to bring a smile to your face and brighten your whole room. I always say, “ You can’t hang your hard drive on the wall.” This always clicks with people because we realize that our images aren’t being displayed and used as much as we wish they were. Instead, we are storing them somewhere deep inside the “cloud” (wherever that is). So, let’s get the best of both worlds! Share your pictures on social media as much as you want for your friends to see, but don’t leave yourself out. No matter what, print your memories and decorate your homes! You can come to my studio where I can help you design products that you love so you can start enjoying your memories displayed throughout your home.