As a general rule, hang frames at eye level, or around 5 feet, or slightly more, from the floor. Hang them a little bit higher if you have high ceilings.

A large gallery display of family photographs is an especially attractive way to infuse any room with warmth. To create a photo wall, place your favorite pictures in frames of different sizes and shapes and hang them in a mosaic pattern. Pull it all together by using like frames or mat color or by using only black and white pictures. New framed pictures can be added to the arrangement until you’ve formed an overall shape that works for you. Interesting options include diamond or rectangular shapes.

Assemble a perfect display and create more than a backdrop on your walls. Fill a large wall space with a collection of images framed identically, or make a dramatic display with shadow boxes and framed works mixed. You could also create several groupings of smaller framed pictures, or arrange a gallery on a table using easel style frames.

Produce the impression of a single dramatic image by framing similar pictures or art work (like a series of abstract paintings) in the same size frame and hanging them tightly together.

Record a special event with pictures and create a stylish display.  Choose your wall, then place three identical size frames in the center to establish a focal point, then add rows, grouping pictures about 1-2 inches apart to form a square or rectangle.  Use all black and white pictures for a graphic effect. 

• Pictures or art don’t always have to be framed.  An unconventional display could be to hang unframed prints or pictures from a length of wire with clips.
• You can place them on a picture ledge or shelf, spaced evenly apart. In this type of display, it’s best to stagger the heights of the frames, or even overlap a couple of the frames.
• Line up framed pieces in chronological order to build a timeline of your growing child, a family vacation or another important event.
• A great area for photo displays is a stairwell. Hang photos here by following the upward angle of the steps.

The best way I have found to create an arrangement that is pleasing to the eye is to lay all your artwork on the floor and arrange them, moving things around until you find arrangement that you like, then transfer the arrangement, one by one to the wall.  Remember, multiple frames look best when arranged in a diamond, rectangular or square shape and spaced relatively tight, like 1-2 inches apart.  A looser grouping can work for a more casual display.

Another way to determine an arrangement that is pleasing to the eye is to use paper outlines of the pieces you wish to hang; tape them to the wall to visualize alternative arrangements and make your decision. 

To hang straight rows of frames – always a timeless and sophisticated option – use string stretched between two pushpins as a guide.  You can also choose to use a laser level to accomplish this.  Make sure to use a level after hanging each frame to be sure each frame is straight before moving on to the next. 

Lastly, if you’re short on space, consider collage frames. With this type of frame, you are able to artfully display many photos in a small amount of space. Collage frames are available for both wall hanging as well as table top display. Check out the great options below (and above), all available at Amazon - just click on an item and you'll be taken directly to Amazon.com.

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