Ideally we would like to use a standard frame for our enlarged photos. This can be done quite easily. The idea is based upon maintaining the same aspect ratio of the original 35 mm film negative. Standard 35 mm film is 25 mm tall and 35 mm wide, and it has an aspect ratio of .71. The aspect ratio is computed by dividing the height by the width, in the case of 35 mm film, it is 25/35 = .71.

Now, lets look at the aspect ratios of the most common photo print sizes.

As you can see, the prints which most closely match the original negative aspect ratio are 3.5x5 and 5x7 inch prints. Notice that 8x10 photos are the most distorted from the original negative.

First Trick. Trim your8x10 photos to 7x10 and put them in 11x14 frames. Not only will they have a better aspect ratio but they will have a symmetric two inch mat boarder in an 11x14 frame.

Second Trick. Enlarge your photos to 9x12 and trim them to 8x11. They will have an aspect ratio of .73 and fit in an 11x14 frame with a symmetrical 1.5 inch boarder.

Third Trick. When framing an 8x10 picture in an 11x14 frame, cut the mat with 1.5 inches on the top and sides and cut the bottom at 2.5 inches. This will look like you intentionally weighted the bottom on the mat.

Fourth Trick. Buy metal frame pieces in 8, 10, 12, and 14 inch lengths and make custom 10x12 and 12x14 inch frames. A 12x14 inch frame gives a uniform two inch boarder with an 8x10 inch picture.