tvj2

I enjoy having my photos with the digital mats. I do not see anything wrong with people expressing their opinion on photo and/or mat. We put it out there for any positive comments or any criticisms and people are free to express their opinions! It probably won't change my mind on matted photos because I actually like doing it :), but I do like comments good or bad on my photos - always learning!!!!

Dixiegirl Loc: Alabama gulf coast

It depends on the image. If it's a documentary type, I'd say present it without mat or frame. However, I think a mat or mat and frame looks nice with fine art photography but is not necessary. I haven't looked over all the comments, Linda, so if someone has already offered the same, please excuse.

Blenheim Orange Loc: Michigan

That is remarkably effective, Will. The illusion that is created (at least for me) is that I am looking through an opening in the page and into a 3 dimensional scene.

Mike

Blenheim Orange Loc: Michigan

Every image is going to be seen in some sort of visual context. Why not exercise some control over that with matting and framing?

Mike

Blenheim Orange Loc: Michigan

Dave (Uuglypher) started a great thread about matting a while back.

Enhancing Perceived Depth in Images via Artistic Matting

Mike

Linda2 Loc: Yakima Wa.

Interesting subject! In thinking about it I try not to let the online use of mats and frames influence my thoughts of an image. I really believe I prefer just the image but that may be because bigger is better!
I certainly do understand the fun of picking out mats and frames though because I was a professional framer and gallery owner for 28 years and what fun it was! I do know it was always more of a challenge to mat photos as opposed to prints and paintings and most of the pro photographers always went with shades of white and simple frames as opposed to others who were framing a piece to go with other decor which isn't bad but maybe always wasn't the best choice for the piece.
But back to this site, to me, if a photo has a lot of detail and you want to download and look at everything, a border doesn't enhance, but if it is a shot of some one thing that takes up most of the frame such as a pet or a flower against a very plain background then an extra border can be quite effective. If you are matting and framing just remember the mat should always be wider than the frame or else the image gets that squeezed in look. A wider mat lets your eye zoom right into the image, but there I go back to my framing days again!☺️ Of course all of this is just my own humble opinion. Most of all do what pleases you.

Alsweet Loc: Gold Coast, Australia

As a judge, presentation is regarded as part of the judging process.
It doesn't matter whether it is an actual print or a digital image- it is up to the artist to present that image in the best way possible.
Would you present a print without a border or matt?
Digitally, it may simply be a thin line or a fancy frame- whatever you present, expect it to be judged.
There is no right or wrong; you be the judge!
Enjoy what you do- rest assured you will always find someone who will find fault with whatever you do!!

Paulco2 Loc: Gettysburg PA

I would expect that anything posted would be fair game for comments, good or otherwise. Framing and/or matting can significantly enhance and image, but if not done properly they can detract from the image. As always, the photographer is usually trying to achieve something specific in their presentation and it is useful to hear what others see in it.

BlueMorel Loc: Southwest Michigan

When presented on here for a critique, a virtual border becomes fair game. It can either add or distract and the presenter should expect comments. I'd expect the same were I to present a photo of a framed photo - what do you think about the frame?

anotherview Loc: California

Agree: "My opinion is that the mat and/or frame is part of the whole and appropriate to be included in feedback."

Choice of frame must involve how the frame functions in relation to the photograph as a whole. They both go together.

Ideally, the frame sets off the content of the photograph in such a way as to bring viewers to center their attention on the content. This assertion rests on the assumption that the photographer wants the viewer first to pay attention to his photograph, and secondarily if at all to notice the frame surrounding it.

This is not a trivial subject but akin to composition and the effort in camera to frame the subject in the best way to flatter it. This business brings into play the eye of the photographer whose perception and experience will inform him how to present his work for appreciation.

jerryc41 Loc: Catskill Mts of NY

I think that large "surrounds" work better in actual, physical frames. In online images, they are more of a novelty or a decoration. Just my opinion.

jaymatt Loc: Alexandria, Indiana

I believe one must look at the image as a whole as presented. Here, I think a single, narrow stroke around an image adds to its attractiveness, though I seldom do it. Large borders can get in the way, although I liked the one in question yesterday very much.

neilds37 Loc: Port Angeles, WA

When I do frame a contribution online I would hope the comments to include the whole. IMO, the mat and frame can make or break a photo. In a judged venue I think the intent should be made clear - is it to be judged as it appears on the wall, or is it to be the merits of the photo.

StevenG Loc: Long Island, NY

IMHO if a mat is applied to a photo via post processing, it is part of the photo. As such it is appropriate to common it.

Personally, I do not like this type of mat. I mat many of my own photos. And, when so doing, any post processing mat, I find, gets in the way and I would probably remove it.
Steve

JennT Loc: South Central PA

In my work, I see the tiny stroke as a period for some images, some do not need it , others --it enhances--- Sometimes I use a mat as the images reminds me of one that may have been printed in a wet darkroom--

Mats, stories can distract, or may enhance--- depends upon!