If you're like me (lets just say frugal :-), and don't relish the thought of going the custom frame route for the prints, here are some suggestions...
- (update) Michaels - the popular arts and crafts store have quite a selection of reasonably priced frames to fit the 3:2 ratio prints. Their Studio Decor brand frames come in 12x18" as well as 20x30" sizes. They often have big savings from single item coupons that you can print on-line. They also periodically have half price frame sales. Of course, they can also do fully custom frames - but those cost considerably more.
- Ikea. Yes, the Scandanavian furniture store is a great place to get frames. Especially for the larger sized 12x18 prints. Here's a link to one of their picture frames , which is nicely matted for a 12x16 print and very reasonably priced. There's a bit of cropping off the sides, but it's usually not an issue. I have quite a few of their frames dotted about the house with my pics in them.
- 8x10 vs. 8x12. On some prints, the way the subject fills the picture is such that it does matter if it is cropped down to 8x10 vs. 8x12. (Incidentally, 8x12 and 12x18 preserves the original aspect ratio of 2:3 from the camera. Hence those sizes).
However, for the vast majority of them - it actually looks better cropped to a 8x10. You can either ask me specifically for a 8x10, or just get the 8x12 and fit it to a 8x10 frame. The advantage of getting a 8x12, and fitting it yourself - is that you control how the image is cropped (just by sliding the picture around in the frame openning). If I do it, it's set and there's no room to change it.
Another option is to get a large frame matted to 8x10, and carefully enlarge the cutout to 8x12. Usually involves a straight edge and exacto knife. Only try it if you have steady hands! Most frame shops would also cut you a custom matt, usually for a very nominal charge.
- For a 20"x30" poster, Ikea comes to the rescue again (see also Michaels above)! They have nice large frames (about 28x40") matted to 19x27" which would be perfect for a 20x30" print. The stainless steel framed model cost under $30. Looks really nice with the matting. Alternatively, a frame shop can always mount and frame it. If you stick with a basic frame - the cost is not too bad.
Hope that helps!
