Photography is a familiar form of expression in our digital age, which makes it all too easy to dismiss photos as everyday images, rather than as stand out works of art. Yet photographic prints can be an affordable and stylish way to start - or add to - an art collection and the impetus for collecting photographs should be no different to the reasons for collecting other art mediums.
As Georgia Spray, founder of Partnership Editions, puts it, "it should be about the strength of the artist and their work, rather than buying photography for photography's sake. I still think photography is an area that is a little misunderstood and intimidating. We'd like to try and break that down for people and make it more accessible.”
Interior designer Sophie Ashby is another big advocate for using photography in her projects. “It’s a joy to celebrate the work of a whole host of incredible photographers in our projects at Studio Ashby, but photography is also a huge part of my own personal collection too. We recently presented Lily Bertrand-Webb’s work in our Sitting Room at WOW!house and it really brought the space to life - I am very drawn to work with a certain honesty and soul, pieces that make you feel alive, and Lily’s portraits do just that.”
Advice from photographer Lily Bertrand-Webb
“Match the main colour in the photograph to the furniture in the room. If it’s a photograph of a blue sky, why not hang it up next to your blue desk, or that blue armchair, or the blue curtains, or even next to the window looking out to the sky!”
On displaying photography
When adding photography to a collection, Georgia Spray likes to mix things up, displaying paintings, drawings, photography and prints together. A large scale photograph as a single artwork over a sofa or dining table can also be a great way to draw the eye to a particular space. In terms of presenting photography in interiors, I'd be playful and not be afraid to mix the traditional and modern. Photography can be a great way to make a traditional space feel more contemporary and clean."
Lily Bertrand-Webb agrees that mixing mediums is a great recipe for a personal, interesting space. “I’m a big fan of classic black and white photographs. Place one next to a bold painting or a colourful photography print. This will make the black and white print stand out even more. My mother is so good at having a wall of mismatching photos and paintings. A wall of collages, prints and photographs will make a room feel colourful and vibrant. Sometimes a small photograph also can stand out on a lovely big wall. I do love a good humour art in the loo.
Pick something fun and cheeky to entertain your guests (and yourself) in the private room! Big tip - make sure you don’t face the photograph wall directly to the sunlight as this can diminish the quality of the print. Oh, and make sure to get non-reflective glass!"
As Kate Cox of HÀM Interiors puts it, “Introducing photography into interiors is an excellent way to add interest and contrast, creating an eclectic feel that can transform a space. This approach works especially well in more unexpected and traditional settings."
On framing photography
Interior designer Kate Cox offers the following advice: “I tend to take a slightly different approach when it comes to framing photography. While I usually love experimenting with interesting, detailed, or rustic profiles for framing art or objects, I often lean towards simplicity for photographs. Of course, there are exceptions, but generally, a simple frame keeps the focus on the subject and avoids distractions.”
"While I like to keep the frame style simple, there’s plenty of room to play with colour and texture. For instance, when framing an antique snapshot of an officer and his horse, I chose a textured burr walnut effect to enhance the vintage feel. Considering the material and texture can elevate a piece, making it feel unique rather than off-the-shelf. Even with a classic deep walnut wood colour, not all finishes are created equal."
"Adding oversized mounts is a great way to increase the impact and scale of a small photograph, giving you more bang for your buck. I particularly like this approach when hanging art against busy or patterned wallpaper, as it gives the piece a bit more breathing room. On the other hand, I also love the effect of large-scale photographic prints or posters framed closely for a more contemporary feel."
"Another aspect to consider, especially when framing photographic art, is using museum or art glass for its non-reflective qualities. While more expensive, it ensures better clarity and makes the photograph stand out.”
When framing, Georgia recommends that you “invest in a beautiful frame as this really brings the work to life. Anti-reflective glass is a game-changer with photography and ensures that it won't fade too.”
On choosing photography
Interior designer Phoebe Hollond, says “photography, for me, has such an inconspicuous power, there is a reality and depth to a great photograph that you can't achieve from 20 prints. One large piece can say a thousand words, which in turn creates such an impact in a particular space. When choosing art in this form, I think overscale is key. Not only in size, but also in colour - I think that it is always wise to introduce a completely new tone that is deficient in the space and this helps to bring the layered effect that every room demands. Recently I used 'Empty Pool' by Claudia Legge in a dressing room in Sussex, this fashioned a feeling entirely new and unique and meant the room really packed the punch it was somewhat lacking before. The power of photography, means that one piece can be enough.”
