3 Tips When Choosing Linear Picture Lights

A straightforward way to illuminate a masterpiece is installing a picture light. Design is a major influence, but we named other important elements that are often overlooked when choosing linear picture lights.

1. CHOOSE THE CORRECT LENS

Your choice of lens finish greatly affects how your picture light illuminates your artwork. We recommend a frosted lens finish to disperse a delicate glow that avoids glare on glass picture frames. It also has a beam angle that is two times wider than a clear lens’, so it spreads light across the picture more evenly.

2. DETERMINE THE RIGHT DIMENSIONS

Modern linear art lights normally extend past the frame or canvas, compared to traditional picture lights that are more narrow than the piece. The right standoff height for picture lights should be greater than the thickness of the frame or canvas to illuminate up to the center of the art. Generally, we recommend the 7-inch standoff.

To install picture lights, simply place it in the same distance above the picture as the standoff height (e.g., A 7-inch standoff will mean your picture light should also be 7 inches above your artwork). Since most picture lights can no longer be adjusted once installed, our THIN Surface Mount Picture Lights with rotatable segments will be helpful.

3. ADJUST DIMMING AND COLOR TEMPERATURE

Apart from being 6 times less efficient than LED’s, incandescent bulbs emit UV light that destroys a painting’s appearance and value. Even museums today have switched over to LED lamping, a lighting solution that does not only preserve an artwork’s true colors, but also cuts costs. Opt for picture lights that are compatible with dimmers to cast an adjustable glow, instead of a stagnant harsh illumination. We also recommend 3000K, a warm white color temperature, to retain the art’s true colors.

LINEAR PICTURE LIGHTS

As a lighting manufacturer, Juniper understands the importance of investing in beautifully-engineered fixtures with a purpose. Whether it be for residential, hospitality, or commercial spaces, our sales team will be able to help you choose the right light for your space.