For those of you who have had a pet portrait made by a designer or an artist, transforming a photo of your favourite pet into a stunning piece of artwork, you will no doubt be aware that this is far more than simply filling a bit of wall space. To truly capture your pet’s personality — whether it’s a cheeky smile, a particular pose, or a glint in their eye — the portrait needs to convey the little quirks and character that make them unique.
Why Choosing the Right Frame Matters
This is why it’s so important to choose the right frame — something far more crucial than many people might realise. A good frame will not only protect the pet portrait, but also enhance it without being overpowering, allowing your pet to take centre stage.
Starting With the Portrait
I’ve found that the best place to start when choosing the ideal frame is with the portrait itself. Some images are full of energy and character, while others convey calmness or even a touch of emotion. For example, a playful photograph of a dog caught mid-leap trying to catch a ball might be best suited to a simple, understated frame. By contrast, a more detailed or artistic portrait can often benefit from a frame with a bit more weight and presence. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution — it’s all about selecting something that feels in keeping with your pet’s personality.
Colour, Mounts and Materials
When it comes to choosing a frame colour, this can sometimes be surprisingly tricky. Many people assume the frame should match the colours within the portrait itself, but this can often make the overall effect feel a little overdone. I prefer to choose a colour that complements the room where the portrait will be displayed. Neutral shades such as black, white, oak or walnut tend to settle in naturally, complementing the surroundings without drawing attention away from the portrait.
Another element worth paying attention to is the mount. A mount allows the portrait space to breathe and gently guides the eye towards the subject. Soft whites or warm creams usually work very well and help to keep the overall look timeless rather than trend driven. Going slightly wider with the mount can make the portrait feel more considered and special, transforming it from a simple photograph into a true piece of wall art.
The next thing to consider is the material of the frame, as this plays a big part as well. Wooden frames can often feel warm and more personal than other frames. These are a very popular choice for portraits which are to be displayed in bedrooms or in living rooms. For those who are looking for a cleaner, more contemporary feel, I would go for metal frames. These can also work particularly well in modern homes. Whether you go for wooden or metal frames really comes down to your personal preference and what suits your space.
Size and Placement
Size is another key consideration. A frame that’s too small can make even the most beautiful portrait feel lost on the wall. Since the image will no doubt mean a lot to you, it deserves room to breathe. Larger framed pieces work particularly well in hallways, staircases, or above furniture, where they can take pride of place and become part of everyday life rather than something you only notice occasionally.
In most cases, when choosing a frame for a pet portrait, you will know immediately when it feels right — it’s more of a gut instinct than a calculation. I would definitely recommend trusting that instinct. By placing your pet portrait in the right frame, it won’t just look fantastic — it will feel right, helping to bring a little of your pet’s presence into your home every single day.