One of the most rewarding aspects of my job as a Bismarck-Mandon family photographer is helping families preserve their memories and enjoy those portraits every day. A gallery wall is a wonderful way to display your favorite family photos and create a focal point in your home.
Creating a gallery wall may seem like a daunting task, but with a little planning and creativity, it can become a fun and enjoyable project that truly reflects your family’s unique style and personality. From choosing the right wall to adding personal touches, I’ll guide you through every step of the process.
Designing Your Dream Family Gallery Wall
Choosing the Right Wall
The first step in designing your family gallery wall is selecting the perfect wall in your home. Ideally, you want a wall that is visible and easily accessible. Consider areas such as the living room, hallway, or staircase wall. These spaces often serve as high-traffic areas and provide an excellent opportunity to display your family photos.
When choosing the wall, think about the size and orientation of the space. A large, empty wall provides ample room for a grand gallery wall, while a smaller wall may require a more compact arrangement. Consider the overall aesthetic of your home and choose a wall that complements your existing decor.
Additionally, take into account the lighting conditions in the chosen area. Natural light can enhance the beauty of your photos, so if possible, select a wall that receives ample sunlight during the day. However, if the wall is in a darker area, you can always add accent lighting to showcase your gallery wall in the best possible light. I can help you make this decision as well!
After you decide which wall, I’ll need you to take a photo of it with your phone so that I can create portrait artwork mockups! All you need to do is tape a piece of computer paper to the wall and snap a photo of it. Send me the photo, so I can upload it to my software.
Deciding on a Theme or Style
Once you’ve chosen the wall, it’s time to decide on a theme or style for your gallery wall. This is where your personal taste and creativity can shine! Consider the overall vibe you want to create, whether it’s a modern, minimalist look or a cozy, rustic feel.
One popular approach is to select a color palette that complements your home’s decor. Choose a few key colors and incorporate them into your photo selection, frames, and other elements of the gallery wall. This will create a cohesive and visually pleasing display.
Another option is to go for a more eclectic look by mixing different frame styles, sizes, and orientations. This can add a playful and dynamic element to your gallery wall. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and experiment with unique frames or even unconventional display methods like hanging photos with clothespins or using floating shelves.
Choosing the Right Media
Now that you have a theme or style in mind, it’s time to choose the right media for displaying your family photos. There are several options to consider, including frames and canvases.
Frames are a classic choice and offer a timeless and elegant look. They come in a variety of materials, such as wood, metal, or acrylic, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your style. You can also mix and match frame colors and styles for a more eclectic feel.
If you’re looking for a more contemporary and sleek option, consider displaying your photos on canvases. Canvases provide a modern and gallery-like feel, with the added bonus of being easy to hang.
Selecting the Photos from your Photographer
Now comes the exciting part – selecting the photos that will grace your gallery wall! As a professional photographer, I know how important it is to capture a variety of moments and emotions during our sessions. When choosing the photos for your gallery wall, you can aim for a mix of portraits or choose a theme that includes each family member.
Consider the composition and visual impact of each photo. Look for images that tell a story or evoke a specific feeling. Think about the overall flow of your gallery wall and how the images will interact with one another.
Don’t be afraid to ask for input from your photographer. We have a keen eye for selecting images that will work well together and can provide guidance on which photos will shine on your gallery wall.
Arranging and Measuring the Layout
Once you have chosen your photos and decided on the media, it’s time to plan the layout of your gallery wall. Before grabbing the hammer and nails, I recommend creating a mock-up of your gallery wall on the floor. Lay out the frames or canvases in the desired arrangement and play around with different layouts until you find the perfect one. Luckily, my software makes this easy to do on the computer without any messing around. My clients just need to send me a photo of their wall to upload to my software. That’s it!
When arranging your gallery wall, consider the balance and symmetry of the overall composition. You can create a symmetrical layout with evenly spaced frames or go for an asymmetrical arrangement for a more eclectic look.
Once you’re happy with the layout, it’s time to measure and mark the wall. Use a tape measure and level to ensure the accurate placement of each frame or canvas. Mark the spots where you’ll need to hang the artwork, making sure to account for any hooks or hanging mechanisms on the back of the frames.
Hanging the Portraits
Now that you have your layout mapped out and the wall marked, it’s time to hang your portraits! Start by gathering the necessary tools, such as a hammer, nails, and a drill if needed. If you’re concerned about damaging your walls, you can use adhesive hooks or picture hanging strips that are specifically designed for hanging artwork.
Before hanging each frame, double-check your measurements and make sure everything is level. Start with the center or focal point of your gallery wall and work your way outwards, using your layout on the floor as a guide. Take your time and step back frequently to ensure everything is aligned and balanced.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure about hanging the portraits yourself, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional handyman or a local framing shop. They can assist you in ensuring your gallery wall is securely and beautifully displayed.
Adding Personal Touches
Now that your portraits are beautifully hung, you could always add some personal touches to your gallery wall. This is where you can truly make it your own and showcase your family’s unique story.
Consider adding personalized elements such as initials, monograms, or meaningful quotes. You can also incorporate small mementos or memorabilia that hold special significance for your family. These personal touches will make your gallery wall even more meaningful and reflect the love and memories you share. Or you can just have your beautiful portraits up there standing alone, the choice is yours!
Don’t forget to leave some room for growth and future additions to your gallery wall. As your family grows and new memories are made, you’ll have the opportunity to update and expand your display. This ensures that your gallery wall remains a dynamic and ever-evolving reflection of your family’s journey.
Maintaining and Updating the Gallery Wall
Once your gallery wall is complete, it’s important to maintain and care for it properly. Be sure to check with your photographer about how to properly care for framed portraits and canvases so that they don’t get damaged.
As time goes on, you may want to update or refresh your gallery wall with new photos or a different arrangement. Don’t be afraid to mix things up and experiment with new ideas. Your gallery wall can reflect your family’s current chapter and bring joy and warmth to your home.
Remember, as a family photographer, I’m always here to help and provide guidance on updating a gallery wall. Whether you need new portraits taken or assistance with arranging them, I’m just a call or email away.
Designing a family gallery wall is a wonderful way to enjoy your portraits every day and share them with visitors. By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to creating a gorgeous display that truly reflects your family’s unique story.
Bismarck-Mandan, ND Family Photos
Remember, investing in professional photography ensures that you have high-quality images to display! Family portraits also have positive effects on your children- read about that here! As a newborn, maternity, and family photographer serving the Bismarck-Mandan, North Dakota, area, I would be honored to photograph your family and help you design the perfect gallery wall. Contact me today to chat about your family’s portrait session!