Picture Frame Sizes

The picture frame sizes you use can enhance or diminish the quality of the image. As the frame is very much a part of the whole image, you need to consider their dimensions very carefully.

The Most Common Sizes (n Inches)

Sizes are classified as small, medium, large and extra large. The small frames typically measure 3.5 x 5, 3 x 5 or 3 x 3 inches. Those made for wallets are even smaller at 2  x 3 , and there are also frames measuring 3  x 5. Other small frame dimensions are 4 x 10 and 4 x 12.

The medium picture frame sizes are known as the standard. Their sizes are 5 x 7, 4 x 6 and 6 x 8. Other sizes are 6 x 4, 5 x 5, 7 x 5 and 8 x 8. The large ones start at 8 x 10. There are also 8 x 12 frames, as well as 8.5 x 11 and 9 x 12.

If you want something extra large, there are frames measuring 10 x 13, 11 x 17, 11 x 14, and 12 x 16. There are also frames that reach 16 x 20 and 20 x 24 in size.

What Size Should be Used?

It depends on what kind of picture you are taking. For wallet sized pictures, the small frames will be sufficient. The medium picture frame sizes are the standard or the average.

If you are shooting a portrait, the large frames will be necessary. The extra large ones are used for diplomas and customized printed images. The 16 x 20 and 22 x 38 are called poster sizes. You can also have frames custom made. Just for the record, professional photographers prefer 11 x 14, 5 x 7, 16 x 20 and 4 x 6.

How Frames are Measured

Frames are measured by the width and height. In the United States and a few other countries, the inch is the measuring system used. In some European countries, the measurement is in centimeters.

If you made a 7 x 5 image, the frame must measure 7 x 5 inches. 7 x 5 frames, by the way, are used horizontally. A 5 x 7 can be used vertically or horizontally.

How to Use Picture Frame Sizes

Each photographer will have their own opinion of how frames can be used. For beginners though, keep the following in mind. The 10 x 8 and 7 x 5 frames are to be employed horizontally. The 5 x 7, 4 x 6, and 8 x 10 can be used horizontally or vertically.

Keep in mind that the frame dimensions refer to the size of the picture the frame can show. It does note refer to the frame’s exterior size. You need to remember that fact when you look for a frame.

By understanding these basic but important facts about picture frame sizes, you will be able to buy the right type. A good picture can be wasted by an ill fitting frame, so knowing the dimensions is essential.