Picture Frame Shopping - Top 3 Questions to Ask Before Buying a Frame

If you’ve ever shopped for a picture frame, there is a good chance you know how overwhelming it can be to find the perfect frame for your picture. There is such a variety… black picture frames, silver picture frames, antique picture frames and many more… how do you choose?

Before you begin, ask yourself these questions…

-Who is the picture frame for?
-What is your budget?
-Where will it be used?

They are simple questions but taking the time to answer each one before you begin will help narrow your search and save you time. Let’s begin...

Who is the Picture Frame For?
Is the frame a gift or for yourself? An obvious first question, but the answer is significant in narrowing your search.

Selecting a Picture Frame as a gift can, at times, be less confusing than selecting a frame for your own pictures. A frame may be purchased to reflect the personality of the recipient or for a special occasion. Often times online frame retailers will have sections devoted to special occasions or themes like wedding frames, baby picture frames and graduation frames simplifying your search for the perfect gift.

With such a wide selection of frames available on the market, you’ll find everything from discount picture frames for less than $10 to sterling silver frames for over $500. So, now that you know who the picture frame is for it is time to ask yourself the next question.

What’s Your Picture Frame Budget?

This may seem like an obvious question but a very important one. Knowing how much you have to spend will help narrow your search even further. The nice thing with frames is that you can find a variety of frames to fit every budget, whether you are searching for frames under $15 or super unique frames for over $100.

Once you’ve answered the first two questions it’s time to start shopping for the perfect picture frame and leads us to the third question…

Where Will the Picture Frame be Used?

Whether you’re giving the frame as a gift or keeping it for yourself you need to have an idea of where the frame will be displayed. Will the picture frame be displayed on a table or hung on a wall. This is very important because some frames are designed exclusively as table top frames while others only come with wall frame hardware.

If you want a table top frame, simply look if it has an easel back stand or is a self standing frame like a double or triple picture frame. For wall hanging hardware, you want to look for any type of hook, loop or hanger that's securely fastened to the back of the frame.

If it is a gift, your knowledge of how it is displayed may be limited and, of course, out of your control. If the frame is for you, determine where it will be displayed and what picture you want to showcase.

These two elements are critical in choosing the perfect frame. The frame should blend with your decor but also enhance your photograph. If possible, have the picture with you when selecting the frame so you’ll be sure it complements your picture.

Or if you buy picture frames with no idea of what picture you’ll be using, have no fear… you’ll find that perfect photo for your picture frame as you continue to capture your life in photos.