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Grouping of photos. One technique to remember is that a grouping of pictures should be thought of as one unit. Test an arrangement of pictures by laying everything out on a large table (or on the floor), playing with combinations until you hit upon one that works. Laying them out on paper is even better since you'll be able to trace around each object and determine where picture hangers should be installed. Tape the paper up on the wall as a template for picture hangers and you'll be done in no time.

You can also lay out pieces of scrap molding (or tape) onto the floor to form the "outside" bundaries of a picture grouping -- the measurements within which the smaller pieces of art will be set. This is useful when a particular wall has certain boundaries that must be observed (such as a chair rail, windows, heating vents, and the like) and helps keep your arrangement the proper size.

Relate photos to wall size. Choose smaller pictures for narrow walls and larger works for big wall spaces. Here a hall wall is accented by hanging a set of six prints in a tall vertical arrangement. One or two larger vertical pictures would have been another possibility for this space.

Hang an art shelf. Popular art shelves are a great way to add interest and take up very little space. Artwork can be hung on the wall over the shelf as well as set onto the shelf with other decorative objects.

Hang securely. Hang pictures to securely attached picture hooks rated for the weight of the artwork or object. If in doubt about picture hardware or its installation, ask advice at the hardware store.

Vary frame shapes. Add interest to a picture grouping by hanging pictures with differently shaped frames. Group two oval frames with a divergent set of rectangular frames.

Mat colors. Pictures will have greater impact if matted in a contrasting color to the wall. Choose a dark mat for a light wall and vice versa.

Frame alike. To harmonize a group of pictures, frame them alike. This brings unity and direction whether it's a pair of pictures or a set of twelve.

Do something different. It can really make a statement in a room. Try framing several photos in one mat and frame. It might be a trio of prints or a set of six smaller photographs. The size of the frame to enclose these objects will also give it the items more impact.

Avoid hanging pictures too high. Have you ever been in a house where all of the pictures are hung too high? You have to crane your neck to get a good look at them. Not only are pictures that are hung too high uncomfortable to view, they do not work harmoniously with the rest of the room's interior design. Pictures should be hung at eye level, or about sixty inches high. You can enjoy them comfortably, and they will feel unified with the rest of the room

Black and White. Monochromatic photos create a sophisticated look. Contrast b&w photos by hanging them on a colored wall. You are sure to make a design statement.