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 consider is the type of photo you want to display- is it a portrait, a candid, a landscape or still life photo? Oval picture frames almost always look best with portraits of people in them. Oval frames are best used to highlight a formal picture or portrait and usually don't look good with informal candid photos. The simplicity of the oval shape frame lends elegance to the image it frames which is why a picture with one or two people grouped closely together is usually best. However you can have a portrait of a group and still have it look nice.

If you are considering an oval picture frame but not sure if it would be the best selection for your photo, duplicate the oval shape of the frame, either with a purchased mat or by cutting a sheet of paper, and placing it over your picture. You will know right away if the oval shape looks good 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 type of oval picture frame do you want?

Along with what you want to display, you should also consider where you want to display your oval picture frame. Before you buy an oval picture frame, determine how you want to display it. Do you want to hang it on the wall or place it on a table or dresser? 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 wood picture frame or a metal one? With oval wood frames, there amount of decorative ornamentation on the frame will vary depending upon the type of wood frame. Solid wood oval frames usually come with little to no decoration on the frame while composite wood frames generally have more ornamentation on the frame because the composite wood is easier to mold. 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 picture frames are another option but they are often made for displaying on table tops instead of hanging on a wall. 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 oval frame style does your photo go best with?

A good place to start when selecting a frame is usually to start with the frame color. 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.
• Wood tones like walnut, cherry or rosewood look good with anything and are a safe choice if you are unsure.

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 basic understanding of the basic styles of oval frames and how they suit different needs.

Pictures of women will look great in a feminine looking oval frame. A feminine look can be anything from flowery ornamentation to decorative features on the top and bottom of the frame or a decorative edge like beading outlining the oval shape of the frame. A feminine look tends to have a traditional or classic appearance.

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 photo a small amount of youthful decoration will nicely highlight the photo.

Black and white, sepia or any picture with an old-fashioned look will blend beautifully with an antique style of frame. Most antique frames have some sort of decorative ornamentation on the frame either around the edge or on the top and bottom of the frame. 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.