Off the hard drives, and onto the walls!

This is a subject any photographer is extremely passionate about… 
getting those jpegs off your hard drives and onto those walls! 

It has been eight months since my own engagement session with Dallas, and five months since our wedding, but I am finally doing it! Don't get me wrong, choosing a select few from hundreds of gorgeous images is just as hard for me as it is for you, but let me tell you it is soooo worth it :) 

Kevin and I have both been so busy, it was easy to let this go for so long, but it is finally time! The living room renovations are finished and I have a long, blank wall to work with. I have done a gallery wall in every place we've had, so this one is no different [except that I have new images to work with]. I choose to use a variety of frame styles and sizes to lend towards a more eclectic look. To unify images from many sessions, subjects and genres, try using the same frame, style or color. To each their own, art is so subjective and personal :) 

This is just a sample of what is going on the wall. I have two large canvases and a small wood art print as well. A couple word art posters and a moss covered letter "K" that is likely also accompanying the wall. I'm not ready to start hanging just yet, I have a few more images to order, but it is a great start :)

Below is a tutorial for the 2-picture window frame shown in the middle of the set. ENJOY and be inspired! Think outside the [typical] frame!!

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Step 1: Find a super awesome window for a thrifty price at a garage sale or estate sale. This will be hard with the popularity of Pinterest. Old windows are now selling for $45 a pop, which is crazy. I picked this one up over a year ago for $5 at a yard sale. Cruise craigslist and find a great deal. 

Make sure the frame is solid (not falling apart). Give the frame a good wiggle and make sure the joints are in good condition. If you are in love and the price is right, BUY! 

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Step 2: Measure the window panes and decide what size prints to order. Mine were about 11x17, and luckily mpix offers an 11x18 size, so I could get a print close with minimal trimming. 

Remember, window panes are not made for prints, don't be surprised if you need to order large and them trim to fit. Make sure the image you choose has room to trim. 

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Step 3: Receive your beautiful prints in the mail and get wicked excited :) Part two of this step is optional, but hard to avoid. 

Steps 4 + 5:  Make sure that you ordered the right size (again, better to order bigger and then trim to fit) and prepare the glass for the prints. Mine was "rustic" and weathered to say the least. I like to wash glass with a 50-50 mix of hot water and white vinegar for a streak-free shine. Let dry before working with the prints again. 

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Step 6: Begin to trim to the window opening size. I prefer to eyeball it, and only use the ruler as a straight edge, but whatever works for you- go for it. I assume since the window is old, it is not only irregular but not square as well. I treat each print individually, and suggest you do as well. 

BE CAREFUL!!! Razor blades are sharp, and no matter how skilled or crafty you are, you should be absolutely mindful of the utility knife at all times. 

Step 7: After trimming each print to the opening, use the cardboard from the print packaging to make a secure backing for the print. [Not shown] I secured the cardboard and print down with painter's tape. The cardboard and prints were snug in the frame, I just like to have it EXTRA snug. Painter's perhaps wasn't the best choice, but it is what I had available. Masking would work better and would be neutral too. 

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And that folks is it! Took roughly a half hour once the prints were delivered. Make those images shine and assemble a statement piece for your house too. 


Stay tuned, the tutorial for this lovely gem is coming soon! I am just waiting for it to dry :) Be inspired photo-lovers! 

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