How to Frame

Generations of family photos make a cohesive whole when hung in identical black frames with crisp white mats. For a timeless, sophisticated look, convert color pictures to black and white. Here, eight sizes of frames are mixed. Burnes Primary Black frames, from 3 1/2 by 5 inches to 8 by 12 inches, $6.50 to $13; North American Regal frames, from 8 by 10 inches to 12 by 36 inches, $11.50 to $23.50; custom-cut acid-free four-ply rag mats in white, $10 to $15 each. All available from A.I. Friedman, 212-243-9000.

How to Arrange

A large collection of photos looks best grouped tightly — no more than an inch or two apart — in a rough square or rectangle.

Tip: Photo labs can enlarge, reduce, and convert color photos to black and white using either the negative (which will produce a higher-quality picture) or the print. You can manipulate photos yourself using a color photocopier.