When choosing pictures photographs, or other art for my home, I usually try to select pieces that fit into the general decor of my home. When choosing pictures photographs, or other art for my home, I focus on whether or not I like the piece. Paintings should serve some higher goal.
Paintings can just be something a person likes to look at.
I prefer paintings that are realistic-looking. The more they resemble a photograph, the better. I prefer paintings that are different-looking. If they're realistic, I might as well be looking at a photograph. Every color has a wide range of shades.