How to Frame a Photo Portrait

Museum Oil portrait made from mother and daughter smiling together at home — Museum Oil portrait example

Mother and daughter smiling together at home — Museum Oil portrait example

A good frame elevates a PhotoCardMagic portrait from a print into a permanent piece of home decor.

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A good frame elevates a PhotoCardMagic portrait from a print into a permanent piece of home decor. This guide covers frame selection, mat choice, and hanging best practices.

By PhotoCardMagic Editorial Team · Last updated 2026-09-22

At a glance

Preview: Free to try
Steps: 5 steps
You'll need: 3 items
Skill level: Beginner-friendly
Cost to try: Free · no signup

Before you start

✓ A printed portrait (or a framed-print order in progress)
✓ A wall or shelf in mind
✓ Basic hanging supplies

Expected outcome: A framed portrait that hangs square, looks intentional, and lasts for years.

Steps

1
Choose frame material and color

For classical styles (Oil Painting, Renaissance, Royal), solid wood in warm walnut or black works best. For modern styles (Pop Art, Photorealistic), minimal black or white metal frames shine. For romantic styles (Watercolor, Botanical), natural oak or white wood feels right.
2
Decide on a mat

A wide cream or white mat gives the portrait room to breathe and adds formality. For small prints (5x7 and 8x10) a 2-inch mat looks balanced. For larger prints, a 3-inch mat does the job. For a matted look, order an unframed art print and have it matted separately; the ready-to-hang framed print has no mat option at checkout.
3
Pick the hanging location

Hang the frame at eye level — roughly 57 inches from floor to center. Avoid direct sunlight, which can fade prints over decades. Keep it away from bathrooms and humid kitchens.
4
Mount securely

For small frames, picture hangers in drywall work. For frames 11x14 and larger, use wall anchors or hit a stud. Always use two hangers on wider frames for stability.
5
Level and step back

Use a small level to make sure the frame is square. Then step back six feet and view the result. Adjust the height if it feels off. The right placement makes a portrait feel like it belongs there.