I just moved into a new space in Los Angeles and, being a photographer, I was looking for some new ways to introduce photography into the design of my interior atmosphere. As far as wall art is concerned, I'm not against putting a strong still image in a frame and letting it speak for itself. Travel photography is great for this. It gives a space a certain outward context and therefore a bigger feel. I know, sounds obvious, but it works. But, I also don't want my place to feel like an art gallery where I display all of my current work. That's what websites, photo books, and art shows are for. I realized I was looking for an alternative to a normal framed print.
So, I started to look for sites that offer unique photo decor ideas and alternative photo printing techniques. I found one site that actually offered both. www.tinymegaphoto.com
Tiny Mega Photo prints on metal, wood, plexiglass, vinyl, glass, and fabrics too. As for unique decor and gift ideas they have many. They even make 6ft shower curtains and table cloths with your image. I'd recommend giving them a try since most other photo sharing sites stop at framed prints and t-shirts.
For the do it your selfers, I searched photo decor. I was directed to a few DIY books and a link for video tutorials. None too creative though. Most involved a trip to the hardware and craft store and adhering a printed photo to wood or metal and applying several coats of varnish and then making a mailbox, birdhouse, or key chain. (Make sure you have a good thick print so the vanish and construction doesn't ruin the image).
If you look around, you'll find a lot of new spaces and blank canvases that would be a perfect place to display a cool image. Doors, refrigerators, beds, ceilings, tables.......
Whether you're doing it yourself, or letting the pros do it for you, pick a photo you won't get sick of and consider new surfaces and ways of adding a photo to your space.
