Photo frames are the best way to preserve the most special memories. Yes, you may have a tonne of photos on your phone or stored away on a USB stick, but that’s not the same as walking past a table or shelf and being instantly — and sometimes unexpectedly — transported to a happy place. Finding ways to display art has been around for almost as long as people have been creating it. There’s evidence of frames being used in the 2nd century BC, when borders were found drawn around ancient Italian cave paintings. In fact in some culture, frames actually became the art — in mid-century Orthodox churches for example. With the invention of photography came yet another use for frames. By the early 1900s, cameras were becoming commonplace, and photo frames followed close behind. Nowadays, most homes have several photos displayed throughout, of weddings, babies, holidays and past generations.
How to choose the right photo frames
When it comes to photo frames, there are no hard and fast rules — it’s just important to choose something you love because you’re going to be looking at it pretty much every day
If you’re looking to narrow the field, consider the style of your home. Is it modern or traditional? Does it have an industrial vibe or is Scandi more your thing? The photo frames you choose will reflect your own style, so choose accordingly. From wooden photo frames for a beachy or shabby chic look, to silver photo frames for a more sleek and modern style, there’s something for every home here at Hardtofind.
Another thing to consider when choosing photo frames is to look for pieces that tie in with your existing colour scheme. Photo frames made of cork or brass will work with warmer colours, or cool silver, pewter will blend with a monochrome theme. As a rule of thumb, you can’t really go wrong with neutrals, but if it’s a statement piece you’re after, then all bets are off!
You should of course also consider the photos you’re putting in the photo frame. Many photo frames are made to fit the standard print sizes, but you can also buy square photo frames, box photo frames, double photo frames or family photo frames that accommodate an entire collage of different photo sizes.
If your photos are super precious — old family photos with no digital back up for example — think too about the quality of the photo frame. Frames don’t just decorate a room, they also keep the image safe from dust, moisture and sunlight.
How to create a picture wall with your photos
A gallery wall is where family photos are grouped together on a wall of your living space or bedroom. It’s a creative alternative to filling a big space with one large artwork. Wall photo frames in the same colour scheme will work well together, but a more eclectic collection can be just as impactful. A picture wall is a great way to bring your own personality to your living areas. Create your own theme with photo frames that sit together. Then put them on the walls either in a grid pattern or in a more organic shape. Your photo gallery can be updated over time, and is sure to be a talking point when friends or family drop by.
Personalised photo frames
Personalised photo frames make excellent gifts for friends, family and colleagues. It’s a lovely way to celebrate life’s events such as the arrival of a new family member, a wedding anniversary or a memory of a special holiday. Choose from selection of photo frames to display pictures of your own personal experiences, such as a Christmas photo frame or family photo frame, or browse the custom photo frames that can be inscribed with names, dates or special messages.
Tip: When searching for your personalised photo frames at Hardtofind, check the ‘Can be personalised’ box in Special features for an instant curation.
Five reasons why photo frames make great gifts
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A favourite photo frame will be on display for years to come. It’s the gift that stays relevant for even longer than the pictures you put in it.
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With such a huge range of photo frames on the market, you can easily find one that matches your criteria and your budget.
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Photo frames can be personalised to suit a particular person or occasion, showing how much thought you put into buying a gift.
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Looking for something you can easily transport or post? A photo frame won’t weigh too much and might even fit through the letterbox!
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While wine, flowers and chocolate are also wonderful gifts, they’re gone in a moment, while a photo frame will last forever. Almost.
So now you’re ready to start shopping for photo frames! In these pages, you’ll find a selection of the best photo frames Australia-wide, including square photo frames, family photo frames, double photo frames and wall photo frames. You’ll also discover a wide range of other decorative items for your home including clocks, vases and rugs.
