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These frames may also be referred to as "swing-open" frames, and may have the look of a shadow box. The Picture is accessed by opening the frame similarly to a book or small cabinet. Pros: Typically easy to load when hung on the wall.Ĭons: Sometimes difficult to get pictures back out while still on the wall image must be sized for the frame, or mounted to a backing or mat.Īnother type of front-loading frame features some sort of a hinge, typically on the side of the frame. Small versions of this type of frame often have a magnet on the back for attaching them to a refrigerator. These types of frames are not exactly front-loading, but rather "top-loading" or "side-loading." The picture can be inserted into the frame through a thin opening on the top or the side. Difficult to align smaller sized pictures when frame is on the wall (gravity can be so annoying) unless the image is mounted to some sort of backing or mat. Pros: Can stay on the wall while changing images seems a good option for large images, such as posters especially when used without or only a thin protective cover.Ĭons: Really only work for images that are sized for the frame. Various qualities and designs of such frames are commercially available. In our opinion, although the design obviates the use of holding devices (e.g., the little flaps or clamps) used to hold the backing against the frame, it is not really quicker or easier to change the artwork in these frames compared to some conventional picture frames.Ī second type of front-loading frame features "flappable" side walls that can be raised providing access to the lens (glass) and the image behind it. Over the years, we tested various commercially available front-loading frames, which generally fall into four categories.Ī widely available so-called "front-loading" picture frame feature a thin plastic edge and a glass plate that pops out towards the front when applying pressure from the back.Ĭons: Need to come off the wall when changing artwork. However, not all frames advertised as "front-loading" or "quick-change" can be used in such manner. A new picture is inserted without exposing potentially sharp hanging means ( e.g., nails, screws, or hooks), and there is no need to re-mount the picture frame after changing the artwork.

Ideally, such frames can stay on the wall when changing images. During this process, hanging devices, such as hooks, screws, or nails are exposed. Front-loading frames, on the other hand, are accessed from the front side of the frame. Obviously, when such a frame is wall-mounted, it must be taken off the wall in order to insert a new picture.

A conventional picture frame is "back-loading" because it is accessed from the back to insert artwork.