3 Reasons Framed Portraits from Your Photographer Are Better Than Cheap Frames
Hardwood Frames
Pro versus Consumer Frames
When you invest in professional portraits, you want them to look their best—not just today but for years to come. While it may be tempting to pick up a budget-friendly frame from a big-box store, there’s a big difference between mass-produced frames and the high-quality, custom framing your photographer offers. Here’s why professional framing is worth it:
It’s about more than cheap frames.
Really the choice is between putting your portraits in a frame or having them framed. The difference is bigger than the difference between DIY and someone putting it in a frame for you.
Superior Quality and Longevity
Cheap frames are often made from cheap things. Yikes. It’s true.
Inexpensive frames are made of low-quality materials like plastic and that “wood” is very likely particleboard.
And the glass？Sadly, thin glass can warp, break, or discolor over time.
Professional grade frames, on the other hand, are crafted from durable materials designed to protect your portrait for the long haul.
It took me a year of trial and error before making sure I found vendors that use hardwood fit framing. Even within professional grade framers there are varying levels quality.
There are UV-protective glass, scratch resistant UV-protective acrylic, and museum grade acrylic all intended to prevent fading.
Archival-quality mats won’t yellow or damage your print. They also provide just a little extra space so that the print does not come into direct contact with the glass /acrylic. These prints are also mounted to a type of archival quality board that keeps the print from buckling or warping within the frame.
2. Perfect Fit and Custom Design
Off-the-shelf frames come in standard sizes, meaning your portrait may not fit properly or might require trimming. Custom frames are designed to complement your portrait perfectly, both in size and style. Your photographer can help you choose a frame that enhances the image, complements your décor, and turns your portrait into a true statement piece.
3. A Polished, Professional Finish
And of course the fun part - the design. Framing is more than just protection—it’s about presentation. A professionally framed portrait looks refined and intentional, with precise matting, secure mounting, and a flawless finish. Cheap frames often have visible gaps, flimsy backings, or distracting glare that take away from the beauty of your image. And the biggest offense of all I often see nicks in the frames. Investing in a high-quality frame ensures your portrait is displayed the way it was meant to be—elegantly and professionally.
Your Memories Deserve the Best
Your portraits aren’t just pictures; they’re the stories of your families lives that will be shared with generations of your family. A high-quality frame preserves those memories beautifully, ensuring they will be around for your children,s children to see into their family history.
Looking for the perfect way to display your portraits? Let’s create something beautiful together! Send me an email.
Your portraits aren’t just pictures; they’re the stories of your families lives that will be shared with generations of your family. A high-quality frame preserves those memories beautifully, ensuring they will be around for your children to see into their family history.