How to Display Your Portraits and Wedding Photos at Home: Tips from a Photographer
Your wedding day or family portrait session captures moments that are precious and fleeting. Once those photos are taken, they’re often stored on a computer or phone, never quite getting the attention they deserve. However, displaying your photos at home can help you relive those memories every day while adding personal style to your living space.
As a photographer, I’ve seen countless beautiful portraits and wedding shots, and I’ve gathered some tips to help you creatively design a photo wall, choose frames, and decide where to display these memories in your home.
My favorite way to design a collection of images on your wall:
Buy the frames you like. And the amount you want to fill your space.
Click above to access general pricing or email us to order right from your gallery!! northglowphotography@gmail.com
1. Designing Your Photo Collage Wall
One of the best ways to display multiple photographs is by creating a collage wall. Whether it’s a gallery wall, a linear arrangement, or an asymmetrical design, a well-curated photo wall can elevate your space.
Here’s how to get started:
A. Plan the Layout:
Before you start hammering nails into the wall, arrange the photos on the floor to get a feel for the layout. This allows you to see how the pieces flow together without committing to a permanent placement. You can go for a grid-style arrangement for a clean, uniform look or a more organic, free-flowing design for a relaxed vibe.
B. Mix & Match Frame Styles:
You don’t have to use identical frames to make the photos cohesive. Experiment with different frame colors and materials, but keep a consistent theme. For example, mix dark wood frames with sleek metal ones or add in some ornate vintage frames for a sophisticated touch.
C. Create Visual Balance:
If you’re using a variety of sizes, balance the larger pieces with smaller photos to create symmetry. Grouping similarly themed images together, like your wedding day portraits, family shots, or vacation photos, can give the wall a polished feel.
D. Add Variety with Different Photo Orientations:
Don’t be afraid to mix vertical, horizontal, and square photos. It adds interest and texture to the overall design.
E. Leave Space for Each Piece to Breathe:
Ensure there is enough space between each photo. You want the images to have room to stand on their own rather than feeling cramped together. Typically, 2 to 4 inches between each frame works well.
2. Where to Buy High-Quality Frames
Visit our North Glow Pinterest Board for links to so many creative frame purchases. Including our favorite Basic but beautiful Gold matted frame from Amazon!
When selecting frames for your photographs, the right frame can make a significant difference in how your images look. Here are some of the best places to buy frames that complement your photos:
A. Online Retailers:
• Framebridge: This is an excellent option if you want custom framing without the hassle. You can upload your photos directly to their website, choose your frame style, and they’ll handle the rest.
• Artifact Uprising: Known for their high-quality materials, they offer modern frames with a minimalist feel. Perfect if you want something clean and stylish that lets the photos shine.
• Minted: Not only does Minted offer custom framing options, but their selection includes fine art prints, making it a great place for a curated look. Their frames are hand-built, with a variety of finishes to match any decor.
B. Local Art Stores:
• If you prefer to shop in person, stores like Michaels and Joann Fabrics offer a broad selection of frames at different price points, with frequent sales and discounts. Many also offer custom framing options.
C. Vintage Shops & Estate Sales:
For a unique touch, explore local thrift stores, flea markets, or estate sales. You can often find antique or vintage frames that bring a sense of history and character to your photos.
3. Best Places to Display Your Photos
Now that you have your perfect photo collage, the next question is: Where do I put them? Here are some of the best places to showcase your beautiful images:
A. Living Room or Family Room:
The living room is the heart of the home, making it a prime spot for displaying portraits or wedding photos. A large photo wall above the couch or on an adjacent wall can serve as a focal point for the room.
B. Staircase Wall:
Staircases are an often-overlooked space that can be transformed into an impressive gallery wall. Display your favorite family portraits or wedding moments along the staircase for an eye-catching display.
C. Hallways:
Long hallways offer a perfect space for a photo gallery. Since hallways tend to be narrow, consider using smaller frames or a vertical arrangement to make the most of the space.
D. Bedroom:
Your bedroom is a great place to display intimate photos that make you smile. Consider framing your wedding portraits or photos of loved ones and placing them on the nightstands or above the bed.
E. Home Office or Workspace:
Display photos that inspire you. If you work from home, place framed family pictures or personal milestones near your desk to create a space that feels both motivating and warm.
4. Additional Tips for Displaying Wedding and Portrait Photos
A. Use Matting to Add Elegance:
When framing larger images, consider using a mat to add a layer of sophistication and help the photo “pop” inside the frame. Matting helps to separate the image from the frame and makes it feel more polished.
B. Consider Black & White vs. Color:
Not all your images need to be in color. Black and white photos often add a timeless, elegant touch to a space, especially for more formal or romantic shots like a wedding day moment.
C. Rotate Your Photos Seasonally:
A fun way to keep your display fresh is by rotating photos seasonally. For example, place holiday family portraits in the winter and sunny vacation shots during the summer months. This keeps your photo wall feeling dynamic and interesting.
D. Incorporate Other Art and Decor:
Your photo wall doesn’t have to be all photos. Mixing in art pieces, inspirational quotes, or personal mementos can give the display more dimension and make it feel even more uniquely “you.”
