Cool picture frames are a great way to view your favorite pictures, family vacation pictures, baby pictures, etc. You can display either one picture or run a slideshow of many images.

Here are some features you should keep in mind when purchasing a picture frame and exciting uses.

What to Look For?

  • Size

Decide where you want to place the frame first, and make sure to keep it in the safe zone, and then you’ll have a better idea of how big the structure you should need for your space.

  • Appearance

Picture frames come in all sizes and looks.  You can buy ones with metal, wood, or even plastic looking frames.  Many models now come with interchangeable plates (frames), so you can choose the look that best works with your decor.  There are two types of picture finish, matte, and glass.  A matte finish works best as a glass finish can create glare.

  • Resolution

For example -Resolution refers to how many pixels are on the screen—the more pixels, the better the clarity and richness of the picture.  Lately, there have been a lot of good deals out there for digital picture frames.  Prices have come down these past few years.  However, check the specs on the picture frame carefully.

  • Display

The best way to ensure you’ll like the frame is to test it out first.  How does the picture quality look?  Do the pictures look vibrant?  Do the pictures load fast during the slideshow?  If you back away 7 feet, can you see the picture fine?  What if you move to the left and right? Do the pictures show well, or is there glare?  Most stores do not let you see the picture frame in action, so you might not be able to test this until you get the picture frame home.

  • Enhanced Features

Picture frames can do more than just display pictures.  Many frames also play songs (mp3’s) and videos. Consult the instructions on the box as to which type of formats the frame takes.  Different brands accept different forms.

By uploading mp3’s into your frame, you can now show your picture slide shows along with your favorite music.  The speakers in the frame offer decent sound, and guests are often surprised by the novelty of seeing your pictures along with the music.

The main benefit here is having your home movies readily accessible to watch at a moment’s notice.  If the frame’s internal memory you buy is not large, this is not a problem.  You can add your home videos to a large memory card and plug them into your digital picture frame.  The video will still play very well.

Most frames come with a remote control so you can change pictures or settings without getting up from the couch.  You’ll want to keep the remote nearby as some of the digital picture frame’s functions can only be accessed remotely.

NOTE:

Keep in mind that any pictures you import into your frame will be imported exactly as they are.  So if your picture is not rotated correctly, it will be imported into your picture frame that way.  It is easier to make changes before importing your pictures into your picture frame.  However, most digital picture frames offer simple editing such as picture rotation, cropping, and color correction. 

You’ve seen cool picture frames before at people’s houses.  If they are on, they are appealing and draw your eyes toward them.  Some people even have several in one room displaying different “themes” or family activities.  Picture Frames are great when you have family gatherings.