This principle applies to selecting a mat as well. White, off-white or neutral mat colors are generally the best choices for photographs; double mats in complementary colors are also appropriate.  Use a black or ebony mat when you want to create a dramatic contrast that pulls the viewer's eye immediately into the photo.  Of course, your choice of mat and frame will always depend on the subject, style and scale of your photograph.  When in doubt, feel free to draw on the reminder we use here at Frame Destination: "All things being equal, the simplest solution tends to be the best one" (William of Ockham).
 
Preservation
In addition to adding to the aesthetic value of your work, using framing materials and techniques that are archival or conservation grade can add to the longevity and value of your artwork. Once a digital image is printed onto paper it becomes subject to the same dangers of light, dust, moisture, temperature extremes and acidity as film prints. Photographic prints come into direct contact with mat and mount board, so special care must be taken that degradation-causing chemicals do not get transferred to your image through them.  Using acid-free, archival quality mats and mount board, as well as UV treated glazing material, is the best method of protecting your image against acid and moisture, both of which can lead to irreversible damage like yellowing and fading. The preservation of artwork is a science unto itself; further information about conservation matting and framing can be found at the Library of Congress' guide to matting and framing website: http://lcweb.loc.gov/preserv/care/mat.html .
 
Additional information about framing photographs:

Purchase fine art photography frames, archival mats and mountboard at:

Frame Destination, Inc.