Photo Frame Size Chart & Guide: Find the Perfect Frame for Your Treasured Photos

Choosing the right frame size for your treasured photos is an essential aspect of displaying them in your home. A well-chosen frame not only enhances the beauty of the photograph but also complements the space where it's displayed.

In this comprehensive guide, we will provide insights and tips to help you find the perfect frame that suits both your photograph and the room's aesthetics.

We will cover standard picture frame sizes, explore common and square frame sizes, discuss panoramic and poster frame sizes, and guide you on how to choose the right frame size based on various factors.

So let's dive in and discover the art of framing!

Photo Frame Size Conversion Chart

Before we delve into the details, let's take a quick look at several different photo frame sizes with this handy conversion chart:

Photo Frame Size Conversion Chart for All Frame Print Sizes

Frame Size in Inches	Frame Size in Centimetres	Photo Size in Inches	Photo Size in Centimetres
8x12	20.32 x 30.48	5x8	12.70 x 20.32
12x12	30.48 x 30.48	8x8	20.32 x 20.32
14x18	35.56 x 45.72	8x12	20.32 x 30.48
14x30	35.56 x 76.20	8x24	20.32 x 60.96
16x16	40.64 x 40.64	10x10	25.40 x 25.40
18x18	45.72 x 45.72	12x12	30.48 x 30.48
18x22	45.72 x 55.88	12x16	30.48 x 40.64
18x24	45.72 x 60.96	12x18	30.48 x 45.72
18x42	45.72 x 106.68	12x36	30.48 x 91.44
24x24	60.96 x 60.96	16x16	40.64 x 40.64
24x32	60.96 x 81.28	16x24	40.64 x 60.96
26x32	66.04 x 81.28	18x24	45.72 x 60.96
28x28	71.12 x 71.12	20x20	50.80 x 50.80
28x38	71.12 x 96.52	20x30	50.80 x 76.20
32x32	81.28 x 81.28	24x24	60.96 x 60.96
32x40	81.28 x 101.60	24x32	60.96 x 81.28
32x44	81.28 x 111.76	24x36	60.96 x 91.44
36x36	91.44 x 91.44	28x28	71.12 x 71.12

The photo that fits inside the frame is a different size due to the thickness of the frame itself, as well as the standard mat sizes included in all of Posterjack’s Framed Prints.

Now that we have the conversion covered, let's move on to the standard picture frame sizes.

Standard Picture Frame Sizes

Standard picture frame sizes refer to the most commonly available frame dimensions. These sizes are widely used and can be easily found in stores or online.

These sizes include:

Standard Picture Frame Size in Inches	Standard Picture Frame Size in Centimetres
4x6	10.16 x 15.24
5x7	12.7 x 17.78
8x10	20.32 x 25.4
16x20	40.64 x 50.8

 

These sizes are ideal for displaying family photos, portraits, and smaller artworks.

They are versatile and can be placed on tabletops, mantels, or mounted on walls.

The 4”x6" and 5”x7" sizes can be great for displaying multiple photos together in a gallery wall format.

Related: 11 Gallery Wall Ideas with Layout Templates

Exploring Common Photo Frame Sizes

While standard picture frame sizes provide a good starting point, there are many common frame sizes beyond the standard dimensions that you can explore.

These sizes offer more flexibility and options for displaying your photos in unique and creative ways.

Let's take a closer look at some of these common photo frame sizes and how they can enhance the image you're displaying:

8”x12" Frame Size

The 8"x12" frame size is perfect for showcasing slightly larger photographs or artwork. It offers a captivating display area that allows your images to stand out.

Whether it's a breathtaking landscape or a significant moment captured in a photograph, this size provides a balanced and eye-catching presentation.

18”x24" Frame Size

The 18"x24" frame size offers a generous display area, making it ideal for showcasing larger prints or artworks.

This size is often used for posters, art prints, or photo enlargements. It creates a bold statement and becomes a focal point in any room.

18”x42" Frame Size

If you have panoramic photographs or artwork, the 18"x42" frame size is a great choice. It accommodates the elongated proportions of panoramic images and provides a captivating display for landscapes, cityscapes, or group photos.

This size allows you to capture the grandeur of the scene and bring it to life on your walls.

32”x44" Frame Size

For those seeking a truly impressive display, the 32"x44" frame size offers a substantial canvas for large-scale photographs or artwork.

This size creates a commanding presence and demands attention. It is often used for statement pieces on accent walls in living rooms and dining rooms, above beds in master bedrooms, and home offices.

Each of these frame sizes can be used in various settings, including homes, offices, or even commercial spaces.

Don't be afraid to experiment with different sizes, arrangements, and styles to find the perfect combination that showcases your photographs in the most captivating way.

The Popular Photo Frame Sizes

Let's take a closer look at a few popular photo frame sizes and where they can be used:

1. Picture Frames for 4”x6" Photos: Ideal for small photos, these frames are perfect for displaying snapshots, postcards, or small artworks. They are commonly used for family photos or cherished memories.
2. Picture Frames for 5"x7" Photos: Slightly larger than 4"x6" frames, these are great for showcasing more detailed photographs. They work well for individual portraits or small landscape images.
3. Picture Frames for 8"x10" Photos: The 8"x10" frames are commonly used for formal portraits, wedding photos, or art prints. They provide a larger display area and can become focal points in a room.
4. Picture Frames for 16"x20" Photos: These frames are perfect for displaying larger photographs or artworks. They create a bold statement and work well as standalone pieces on walls.

In addition to these standard sizes, you may also come across A4 picture frames for A4-sized art or photographs, and other A-series sizes. These frames follow the international paper size standard and are commonly used for art prints and documents.

Square Picture Frame Sizes

Square picture frames add a unique touch to your photographs or artwork. Here are some popular square frame sizes:

Square Picture Frame Size in Inches	Square Picture Frame Size in Centimetres
16x16	40.64 x 40.64
18x18	45.72 x 45.72
24x24	60.96 x 60.96
28x28	71.12 x 71.12
32x32	81.28 x 81.28
36x36	91.44 x 91.44

 

Decorating your home with square picture frames offers a distinct and modern aesthetic.

The symmetrical shape adds visual balance and creates a cohesive look when arranging multiple frames together.

Square frames provide a contemporary twist to traditional rectangular frames, allowing for unique and eye-catching displays that stand out and make a statement in any room.

Panoramic and Poster Picture Frame Sizes

Panoramic frames are designed to accommodate wide or elongated photographs. Some common sizes include:

Common Panoramic Frame Sizes in Inches	Common Panoramic Frame Sizes in Centimetres
12x36	30.48 x 91.44
14x30	35.56 x 76.20
16x48	40.64 x 121.92
18x42	45.72 x  106.68

 

Panoramic frames are great for displaying landscape photos, cityscapes, or group photos.

Although panoramic photos can be printed in different sizes, they’ll generally have an aspect ratio of 2:1 or larger, meaning the width of the photo is at least twice as long as its height. The actual print size options will vary, depending on the photo art product you choose.

For example, if you choose Posterjack to print your panoramic photos, you can have a huge 40 x120” panoramic Poster Print made, but the largest panoramic Framed Print size available is 18”x42” or if you choose a Canvas Print, the largest panoramic size available is 20”x60” (or 30”x60” if you want a 2:1 double-width aspect ratio).

Thankfully, the Posterjack website makes it super easy to find just what you’re looking for. Simply go to the product page of the photo art you’d like to order, and under the Pricing tab, you’ll see available sizes categorized under their aspect ratios.

Poster-sized picture frames, on the other hand, are perfect for larger than life prints, movie posters, or artistic posters. These sizes create a bold visual impact and will become focal points in your space. Some common poster print sizes include:

Common Poster Frame Sizes in Inches	Common Poster Frame Sizes in Centimetres
11x17	27.94 x 43.18
18x24	45.72 x 60.96
24x36	60.96 x 91.44
28x40	71.12 x 101.60

You can find various ways to frame these poster-sized prints, from the classic picture frame to a modern float frame or even a float mount system for an unframed look which gives the illusion of your print floating from the wall it’s displayed on.

[Image Credit]

How to Choose The Right Frame Size

Now that we have covered various frame sizes, let's discuss how to choose the right frame size for your photographs. Several factors come into play when selecting a frame size, including:

• Space Available: Measure the space where you plan to display the framed photo. Ensure that the frame size fits well and doesn’t overpower or look too small in the given area.
• Subject of the Photo: The subject of your photo should guide your frame selection. For example, a rustic barnwood frame might work well for nature or landscape photos, while a sleek modern frame could enhance a contemporary portrait.
• Style and Room Colours: Consider the overall style and colour scheme of the room. Choose a frame that complements the existing decor and enhances the visual harmony.
• Visual Impact: Think about the visual impact you want the framed photo to make. A larger frame size can create a bold statement and draw attention, while a smaller frame size may be more intimate and subtle.
• Display Purpose: Determine the purpose of the framed photo. Is it intended as a focal point, a part of a larger gallery wall, or a standalone piece? Do you plan to display it on your wall, a coffee table, office desk, or fireplace mantle? Different purposes may require different frame sizes to achieve the desired effect.

Refer to this helpful infographic for tips on how to display your artwork.

Frame Your Art: A Quick Guide to Standard Painting Sizes and Frames

In addition to photographs, paintings also require appropriate framing to enhance their beauty and protect them. Here are some standard painting sizes and the recommended frames:

• 8”x12” - Suitable for small to medium-sized paintings. Opt for a classic essential frame or a sleek lacquer frame based on the style of the artwork you’re displaying.
• 18”x24" - Ideal for medium-sized paintings. Consider using a white oak natural frame or a light walnut gallery frame for a timeless look.
• 32”x44" - Perfect for larger paintings. Choose a bold and substantial frame that complements the style and colours of the artwork.

Remember, these sizes are just a starting point, and you can always customize the frame selection based on your personal preferences and the nature of the artwork.

Related: How to Make Prints From Original Artwork

Picture Mount Sizes

Picture mounts, also known as mats, are used to create a border around your photograph within the frame. They add visual interest to your image and also protect the photo from direct contact with the glass.

When choosing a picture mount, ensure that it’s larger than the photo itself to create an aesthetically pleasing border. The width of the mount can vary depending on your personal preference and the size of the photo.

When you choose Posterjack for your Framed Prints, there's no need to try to figure out which picture mount size is best for your photo and the frame it will be displayed in. This is because the size of the mat included with every Posterjack Framed Print has been expertly preselected by our master framer for the best possible results!

Conclusion

Selecting the right frame size is crucial to effectively display and preserve your treasured photos.

By considering factors such as photo size, matting, available space, subject, and room colours, you can find a frame that not only enhances the beauty of the photograph but also complements the overall style and design of your home.

Use the provided size charts and guide to explore different frame sizes and make informed decisions.

Remember, framing is an art form in itself, and with a little creativity and attention to detail, you can create stunning displays that bring your cherished memories to life.