How to reduce the reflections of a picture frame?

Picture frames are a beautiful way to showcase artwork, family memories and photography. However, reflections on the glass surface can often become a frustrating distraction. Glare and reflections can make it hard to view your framed piece clearly, especially in rooms with bright lighting or sunlight. If you’ve hung a photo or art print and all you can see is your own reflection or a glare from the window, you’re not alone. Thankfully, there are several practical ways to minimize or even eliminate these reflections and improve the visual clarity of your display.

In this guide, we’ll explore effective methods to reduce reflections on your picture frames, whether you're dealing with a gallery wall at home or professional artwork in a gallery space. With the right approach, you can keep your frames looking great and ensure the focus stays on the art—not on the glare.

1. Use Non-Reflective or Anti-Glare Glass

One of the most effective ways to reduce reflections is by using non-reflective glass or anti-glare glass. This type of glass has a special coating that scatters light rather than reflecting it directly. As a result, it softens harsh light and reduces the mirror-like effect that regular glass creates.

You can find non-reflective glass at most custom framing shops. It may cost a little more than standard glass but the clarity and reduced glare make it a worthwhile investment, especially for high-value prints or artwork.

2. Opt for Museum Glass or Acrylic

For high-end displays, museum glass or anti-reflective acrylic offers the best solution. Museum glass not only reduces reflections but also protects your artwork from UV light, which can cause fading over time. It provides a crystal-clear view with minimal light interference.

Anti-reflective acrylic is a lightweight alternative to glass and is ideal for large frames or hanging in high-traffic areas. It’s shatter-resistant and safer, especially if children or pets are around.

3. Adjust the Frame’s Placement and Angle

Sometimes, you can reduce reflections simply by changing how or where you hang the frame. Avoid placing frames directly opposite windows, bright lamps or strong overhead lights. These light sources often create direct glare that reflects off the glass.

Try angling the frame slightly downward when hanging it. This adjustment redirects reflected light away from your line of sight, making the image easier to view. If you’re hanging multiple frames, test different positions to find the best angles.

4. Use Controlled Lighting

Controlling the light in the room can greatly reduce frame reflections. Use indirect lighting or diffused light instead of strong direct lighting. Soft light sources like wall-mounted sconces or LED strips behind furniture help illuminate your artwork gently.

Avoid placing strong spotlights or lamps directly in front of the picture. Instead, use adjustable lighting from the ceiling or mount picture lights above the frames to cast light downward at a soft angle.

5. Choose Matte or Satin Prints

If you're framing a print or photo, choose matte or satin finishes over glossy ones. Glossy prints reflect light easily, which increases glare even behind glass. Matte and satin prints absorb more light and reflect less, improving visibility even with standard glass.

This is especially useful if you’re printing photos yourself or selecting artwork from an online store. Always check the print finish before framing.

6. Use a Matte or Anti-Reflective Mat Board

A mat board (also known as a mount) sits between the artwork and the frame. By adding depth and space between the image and the glass, a mat board helps reduce the sharpness of reflections on the glass surface. Using a matte-finish or anti-glare mat board adds another layer of reflection control.

Mats also create a more professional, finished appearance and protect the artwork from touching the glass, which is an added bonus.

7. Clean the Glass Regularly

Dust and smudges can make glare worse. Keep the glass clean to reduce the visibility of reflections. Use a microfiber cloth and a glass-safe cleaner to remove fingerprints, streaks and dirt. Clean both sides of the glass before framing and periodically after installation.

Also, avoid cleaning under direct light, as it makes it harder to spot streaks. Always let the frame dry completely before rehanging it.

Conclusion

Reflections on picture frames can take away from the beauty of your artwork or photos. But you don’t have to live with glare and frustration. By using anti-reflective glass, adjusting the frame’s position, choosing matte prints and managing lighting, you can enjoy a clearer, glare-free view. These simple adjustments help you showcase your frames as they’re meant to be seen—without the distractions.

Whether you're decorating your living room or setting up an art gallery, reducing reflections helps your display stand out with clarity and elegance.