Digital BW, The Print

Patrick,

Although some might think 16 x 20 is too much matt for a smaller, 
say 5x7 inches, it is completely a matter of taste. Generally you 
should leave more matt at the bottom of a print than top due to the 
top-heavy illusion. When there is more matt at the top it looks as 
if the print will fall off the wall. More matt at the bottom gives 
the print a base and gives the illusion that it is more solid on the 
wall. My own preference is for more white space separating the print 
from the world. I usually matt an 8x8 inch print to a vertical 16 x 
20 board. I think a 4 x 5 contact print looks great matted to 14 x 
17 inches. As I said, it is a matter of taste and there is no 
accepted rule.

Bill


www.billschwab.com