BetterPhoto Q&A
Category: Printing Digital Pictures

M		White vs. Black Matting on Black and White Photos? Hi! I am just curious about other people's preferences on using white or black matting with black and white photos. What do you prefer? To love this question, log in above 0 January 06, 2005

Mellanie		I really think it depends on the photo. Well, for me it does. I know that doesn't really answer your question, but ... Usually, I go with white. To love this comment, log in above 0 January 05, 2005

Shauna Linde		I've never really compared the two side by side - but when I was in school we always did black matting so that's what I prefer. I think in the long term it may not get as discolored as white can from smoke or age, etc., although that probably has to do with the quality of the paper. Mellanie has a good point - hold the picture in question up to both colors and see which one seems to fit better. To love this comment, log in above 0 January 05, 2005

Beverley Merson		Here are three thoughts re your question. White matts can discolour, but black matts can and do fade especially if they are ever in direct sunlight. I have always found that black matting constricts the eye and may crowd (or focus)the picture while white matts lets the picture breathe. The balence of white and black tones in the picture may also be a determining factor. Do you want the white/black matt to create a contrast or a compliment (compliment as in blend with) to the picture. Hope this has given you more to think about. To love this comment, log in above 0 January 10, 2005

Rhonda		Hi, have you looked at white matting with black core (when they do the cut-out, it is black around the edge). This looks great and adds depth to the image. You can also purchase in black with white core too I believe. Rhonda To love this comment, log in above 0 January 10, 2005

John P. Sandstedt		If you're into competition, remember that many judges are extremely partial to white matting. That is, they'll downgrade score for any colored mat other than white! This goes for color or B&W prints. As to which you should use, it really depends on your personal choice [or that of a client] and the image your matting. As I'm in the proces of filling the walls of a relative's home, I've inserted images into PowerPoint Slides to allow white anf black matting effects to be compared. In some respects, this is better than using the actual matboard "angles." John To love this comment, log in above 0 January 12, 2005

M		Thank you to all for your responses. It's certainly given me a lot to think about. Thank you! ~M To love this comment, log in above 0 January 12, 2005

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