The rise of high-spec smartphones means that most of us don’t carry a regular camera any more when we’re out and about, preferring the convenience of capturing a special moment with our phone. This gives us spontaneity and freedom from carrying bulky equipment, but it can also mean that some great moments are forgotten in the churn of your camera roll.
Pre-21st century photography involved taking films to specialist printing shops, and returning a week or so later to collect a set of glossy prints on lightweight card. While costly and time consuming, in return you had permanent reminders of special moments, and the freedom to frame your favourite snaps.
Now, people are realising that despite all the advantages of digital photography, these opportunities to frame memorable images can be overlooked, or seem like too much trouble. However, with the quality of today’s smartphone cameras, it’s possible to transform your snaps into frame-worthy physical images. Here’s how.
Choose the right image
Start by curating your photos at a moment when you’ve got plenty of time. Try not to get lost down memory lane, but intently scroll through your gallery and look for images that evoke emotion, capture light beautifully, or represent a cherished memory. Travel shots, portraits, urban details, and abstract textures often translate beautifully into framed pieces.
For best results:
- Look for good natural lighting and sharp focus.
- Avoid over-edited or overly filtered photos: clean edits look better in print.
- Use the “favourites” feature on your phone to shortlist candidates.
Edit smartly
Before you send your photo off for printing, give it a subtle polish. Most smartphones have built-in editing tools that allow you to crop, straighten, alter brightness and colour balance, reverse images, blur out unwanted backgrounds and so on. You can also try apps like VSCO, Snapseed, or Lightroom Mobile for more refined control.
However, don’t be tempted to overdo the saturation or sharpening, because subtle edits tend to print more naturally and timelessly.
Get it printed properly
Not all photo prints are created equal. It is possible to print out your photos at home if you’ve got a decent laser printer designed for the purpose, and you use high quality photo paper. However, if you want your image to look stunning framed on your wall, it’s best to use a professional quality print service.
There are hundreds to choose from online, where you can have the option of simply uploading your photos or editing them with an app or downloadable software. The photos will then be posted to you. Alternatively, you can visit a physical store that allows you to print your photos out in person.
Points to consider:
- Paper type:Matte or fine art papers work well for a contemporary look. Glossy papers tend to reflect light, which can be distracting behind glass.
- Size:Bigger isn’t always better. Consider the wall space you have and how much visual weight you want the photo to carry.
- Resolution:Ensure the image is high-resolution (usually at least 300 dpi at your desired print size). Most recent phones shoot high enough quality, especially with ProRAW or HEIF formats.
Pick the perfect frame
The frame you choose can transform a casual photo into a contemporary statement piece. At our London framing shop, we offer a range of bespoke, hand-finished frames that enhance rather than overpower your photo.
Popular options include:
- Slim black or white box frames for a minimal, modern look.
- Natural oak or ash for warmth and Scandinavian-inspired interiors.
- Float mounting where the photo sits slightly raised above the mountboard for a gallery finish.
- No mount at all for a full-bleed edge-to-edge presentation, ideal for travel and architectural shots.
- A wide white mount within a clean-lined frame: it draws the eye and adds a sense of space and formality.
Think about placement
Where your photo goes is just as important as how it’s framed. Groupings of two or three framed phone photos can be very effective, especially when using similar colours, themes, or framing styles. Think about the moments and memories the photo evokes, and how they relate to the way you will be using the room.