Framing Guide

Each Rodrigo Eng Photos print is supplied unframed, giving you the freedom to select a presentation that suits both the artwork and your space.

Every print includes an intentional white border surrounding the image. This border is part of the printed sheet: it preserves the photograph’s original composition, provides space for careful handling and mounting, and creates visual separation between the image and the frame.

The size selected on the product page refers to the full paper size, including the white border.

Choosing a presentation

The incorporated white border is designed to be part of the print’s presentation. It may remain visible, sit partially beneath the frame edge, or be displayed in full through float mounting.

Framing with the incorporated white border

The print can be framed without an additional window mat, allowing the white border to provide a natural transition between the photograph and the frame.

Depending on the frame construction, its inner lip will normally cover a small portion of the paper. Most of the white border will remain visible while the paper edges are held securely within the frame.

This is a clean and practical presentation for every size and is particularly well suited to Large, Extra Large, and Collector prints, where an additional mat would substantially increase the overall frame dimensions.

The print should not touch the glazing. Appropriate spacers, backing, and conservation-conscious mounting materials should be included in the framing package.

Float mounting

Float mounting displays the complete sheet, including all four paper edges and the full white border. The print appears to rest above the backing board, with open space around it inside a larger frame.

This approach emphasizes the print as a physical art object and makes the complete border visible. Because the mounting method is exposed and the frame must be larger than the print, float mounting is best completed by an experienced professional framer using conservation-appropriate materials.

Adding a window mat

A separate window mat may be added, particularly to Small and Medium prints. The mat can conceal most of the incorporated white border or leave a narrow portion visible around the image.

This approach adds another layer of visual separation but also increases the overall dimensions of the finished piece. For Large, Extra Large, and Collector prints, a conventional mat would result in a significantly larger custom frame and may not suit every space.

If a mat is used, its opening should overlap the white border rather than unnecessarily covering the printed image.

Print and border dimensions

The measurements below show the complete paper dimensions and the white border incorporated around the image.

Size Total paper size Border on a vertical print
Small Vertical: 12 × 18 in
Horizontal: 18 × 12 in
0.5 in left/right
0.75 in top/bottom
Medium Vertical: 24 × 36 in
Horizontal: 36 × 24 in
0.75 in left/right
1.125 in top/bottom
Large Vertical: 28 × 42 in
Horizontal: 42 × 28 in
1 in left/right
1.5 in top/bottom
Extra Large Vertical: 32 × 48 in
Horizontal: 48 × 32 in
1.25 in left/right
1.875 in top/bottom
Collector Vertical: 40 × 60 in
Horizontal: 60 × 40 in
1.5 in left/right
2.25 in top/bottom

For horizontal prints, the border rotates with the sheet: the longer border appears on the left and right, while the shorter border appears at the top and bottom.

Minor production and cutting tolerances may occur. The physical print should therefore be measured before a custom frame or mat is ordered.

Selecting a frame size

When framing without an additional mat, the frame is generally selected according to the full paper dimensions. A frame described using the same dimensions as the print may cover a small portion of the border beneath its inner lip.

A larger custom frame is required when the full white border and paper edges are to remain visible through float mounting.

When a separate window mat is added, the outer frame dimensions will depend on the selected mat width. This can increase the overall footprint considerably, especially for the larger print sizes.

After the print has had time to relax from shipping, measure the complete sheet from paper edge to paper edge, preferably to the nearest 1/8 inch. Use these physical measurements when ordering a custom frame or entering dimensions with an online framing service.

Large finished frames may exceed the size limits of some online framing and courier services. Confirm that the provider can accommodate and safely deliver the complete framed dimensions, particularly for Extra Large and Collector prints. Local or in-studio professional framing may be the more practical option at these sizes.

Conservation framing

Conservation-conscious framing helps protect the print and allows it to be removed from the frame in the future without unnecessary damage.

Recommended framing materials and methods include:

  • Conservation-quality, lignin-free backing materials
  • Conservation-quality matboard when a window mat is used
  • Reversible or non-adhesive mounting methods where possible
  • UV-filtering glazing
  • A window mat or spacers that prevent the print from touching the glazing
  • A frame deep and strong enough to support the complete framing package

Pressure-sensitive household tapes, spray adhesives, and permanent mounting directly to the print should be avoided.

Lightweight acrylic glazing is generally preferable for larger sizes. Professional framing is strongly recommended for Large, Extra Large, and Collector prints.

Light and placement

The framed print is best displayed away from direct sunlight, intense spotlights, heating sources, air vents, and areas with frequent changes in temperature or humidity.

UV-filtering glazing provides additional protection but cannot eliminate all the effects of prolonged light exposure. Soft, indirect lighting provides a comfortable viewing experience while helping protect the artwork.

Caring for the framed print

Frame, glazing, and mounting materials may require different methods of care. Follow the care and cleaning instructions provided by the professional framer or the manufacturer of the materials used. If those instructions are unavailable, consult a qualified framer before cleaning the frame or glazing.

Certificate and serial labels

The Certificate of Authenticity is intended to be stored in a safe, dry place as part of the artwork’s documentation.

Each order also includes a sheet with two matching serial labels. One label may be placed on the back of the frame or conservation backing board, while the second may be stored with the Certificate of Authenticity. Labels should not be applied over the printed surface.

Working with a professional framer

A professional framer can measure the physical print and recommend an appropriate frame profile, glazing, backing, mounting method, and hanging hardware for its size and intended location.

The framing approach will depend in part on whether the incorporated white border is to remain fully visible, sit partially beneath the frame edge, or be presented with an additional window mat.

Frames, mats, glazing, and other accessories shown in room photographs are for presentation purposes only and are not included with the print.

 

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