Oval picture frames are a decorative and unique way to display any portrait or favorite photo. However, not all portraits work well in oval picture frames. To help you make the best picture selection for your oval frame there are three questions you should ask:

Question #1: What type of picture do you want your oval frame for?

The first thing you should think about is what type of photo you want to display- is it a portrait, a candid, a landscape or a still life photo? Normally, oval frames look best with portraits of people. Oval picture frames are meant to beautifully highlight a formal picture and are generally not suitable for informal candid shots. The elegance and simplicity of oval frames are a natural fit for a formal portrait and its shape lends nicely to displaying a photo of just a few people. However you can have a portrait of a group and still have it look nice.

If you're considering an oval frame but aren't quite sure it will look good, you should get an oval picture frame mat (or cut a sheet of paper into the shape of an oval) and place it over the picture. You'll know immediately if you like the oval shape with your picture. If it does, continue your search for an oval picture frame. If it doesn't look good then it's time to search for a different shaped frame.

Question #2: What kind of oval frame do you want?

In addition to the type of photo you want to frame, you should also consider where you plan to display your oval frame. Before you get an oval frame, always know how you want to display it. Do you want to display it on a table or dresser or hang it on the wall? Be sure to always check the oval frame before you buy it to see how it can be displayed because many oval frames are designed with either hanging hardware or an easel back stand but few have both. This is an important (and often overlooked) step that will help you narrow down your selection.

Next thing to consider is the type of material and style. There are lots of different styles and finishes to choose from with oval picture frames. Do you want a metal frame or a wood picture frame? With wood oval frames, there are varying degrees of decoration depending upon the type of wood frame. Solid wood oval picture frames usually are rather plain with no decorative features while composite wood frames generally have more decorative ornamentation on the frame because the wood can be easily molded. Oval wood picture frames are usually most popular in rich wood tones like vintage walnut, rosewood and cherry or antique colors like gold or silver.

Metal oval frames are another option, but are commonly designed for table top displays instead of wall picture frames. Metal oval frames are easy to find in smaller sizes and are usually adorned with decorative features like decorative metal work, beads or crystals. If you're looking for a quality, well made frame you should consider a solid pewter, silver plate or sterling silver picture frame. These frames will be more expensive than aluminum or metal alloy oval frames but they will last a long time and be enjoyed for many years.

Your personal style preferences and the photo you want to frame are ultimately what will determine what oval picture frame is best for you. However, don’t make the mistake of selecting a frame you love without any consideration to how the photo will look.

Question #3: What frame style does your picture go best with?

The best place to start when selecting a frame if often to start with the color of the frame. Here is a good general rule of thumb for selecting a color:

• Antiqued silver frames are a wonderful choice for black and white photos

• Antiqued gold frames are great with sepia prints and also look good with black and white photos.

• Classic wood finishes like cherry, rosewood and walnut look great with just about anything and are always a safe bet if you're not sure.

Once you've selected your color, you'll now need to determine the type of style that will best complement your photo. But first, let's get a good understanding of the different styles of oval frames and how they best meet different needs.

Photos of women always look great in a feminine looking frame. A feminine looking frame usually has a decorative or flowery ornamentation on the top and bottom of the frame or a beaded or decorative edge outlining the oval frame. Most feminine looking oval frames tend to have a traditional or classic style.

For pictures of men or boys, you will want a more masculine look so consider a classic plain oval frame with no ornamentation or decorative edging. However, for a young boys picture, a small amount of decoration on the frame can highlight the photo nicely.

Black and white, sepia or any picture with an old-fashioned look will blend beautifully with an antique style of frame. These frames have some type of ornamentation around the exterior of the frame to give it a traditional or antique look. Many antique picture frames have a dark underlying color around the ornamentation to give it an aged look that helps to accentuate the decorative features.

With so many colors and styles, make sure to choose a frame that complements both your photo and your home's decor. Once you've answered these questions, you should have everything you need to choose the right oval picture frame for your photo.