Decorating a room with photos isn’t always easy. You don’t usually get to color coordinate your images with your other decor. This is because you typically want to display your favorite pictures that have nothing to do with color, but rather the people in them. And if you’re not careful about how you display them, you can end up with a room that looks more like Grandma’s eclectic hallway collage than an artistic statement. So, if you’re looking for some home design inspiration for hanging your pictures with pride, here are a few simple suggestions.
Black and whites
One interesting way to create cohesiveness between photos is to print them all in black and white. You can then frame them all exactly the same way or mix up the look by adding different colored mats in the same-sized frames. You can also alternate black and white photos with color photos to add dimension and interest to your walls.
Floating shelves
Floating shelves can be hung almost anywhere, and they come in many sizes and styles. A great place to put one of these would be in a long hallway or dining room where minimal decor is needed. It’s best to find one with a lip to hold the photos in place, but the style is up to you. Once you’ve hung your shelf, you just need to line up all your favorite portraits and snapshots, layering for interest. These often look best and retain their shape better if they’re matted. This is a great time to download some of the shared pics you’ve been hanging on to on your smart ibi photo device. Your family and friends will be thrilled to see them in print.
Mixed sizes
It’s OK to mix sizes of the photos you’re displaying, but it usually looks better to make sure the outline of the grouping is even. An easy way to do this is to use the backside of a roll of wrapping paper as a guide. You’ll just lay your photos out on the paper and trace the edges once you have them where you want them. Wrapping paper works great because it usually has lines on the back to help you keep your pictures straight.
You can then use small nails or thumb tacks to attach the paper to the wall, and use a level to make sure it’s even. Using the outline you made on the paper, hammer your nails into the proper places for each photo. You can then rip the paper away and hang your pics on the nails.
Another attractive way to group mixed sizes of photos is by framing them in the same size frames. Some of the photos can fit the frames perfectly, and others can be matted to fit. The trick to bringing this look together is to use the same type of frame and same color of mats in each one. Some mats will be large and some small, but it will add interest to the look.
Canvas prints
Canvas prints are classy ways to add art to your rooms. You can create one large print to display over your fireplace, several small ones to group over the couch, or a row of medium-sized prints to line up along the dining room wall. Quality canvas prints make the colors pop and make your photos stand out.
Photos are an important part of your family’s history. Not only do they help you to feel surrounded by people you love, but they are also proven to boost children’s self-esteem. Psychologists believe that displaying pictures of your child within the home gives them a sense of belonging and importance. So, no matter how you choose to display them, it’s better than leaving them in a closet somewhere only to collect dust.
