Framing a photo is one of the simplest ways to give an interior a personal touch. The problem arises, however, when you need to match the print size to the frame, because frame dimensions and standard photo formats do not always align. A few simple rules will help avoid disappointment and ensure that the photo looks in the frame exactly the way you imagined.
Most Popular Formats and Proportions
Standard print sizes such as 10x15, 13x18, 15x21, and 20x30 have proportions close to 2:3, the same as frames from most cameras. Frames available in shops often match these dimensions, so in the simplest case you just need to order a print in the size matching the frame you bought. Things get more complicated when you want to use a frame with square proportions or close to 4:3, because then the photo needs to be cropped. It is best to do this yourself in a graphics program before ordering, so you have control over what gets cut. In our prints selection you will find a wide range of formats that make it easier to match the frame.
Passe-partout as a Solution
If the frame is larger than the print, the ideal solution is a passe-partout, a cardboard mat with a cut-out opening where the photo is placed. A passe-partout not only solves the size mismatch problem but also gives the framed photo an elegant, gallery-like appearance. A light passe-partout works with most photographs, but for dark, moody shots you can try a darker background. For larger formats, it is worth considering enlargement prints, which allow you to achieve the effect of a large wall photo without the need for canvas printing.
When planning a gallery of several frames on one wall, it is best to stick to two or three print sizes and a uniform frame style. Too many different sizes and frame colours create an impression of chaos rather than a thoughtful arrangement. A symmetrical layout or a grid of identical frames where each photo is the same size works well. You can also choose one large print as the central point and surround it with smaller formats.
Before ordering prints, it is worth measuring the inner dimension of the frame rather than its outer edges, because it is the inner opening that determines how much of the photo will be visible. The difference between the outer and inner dimensions can be as much as several centimetres, especially with wide, decorative frames. A little attention to measurements will allow you to order prints that fit the frame perfectly and enjoy the result without having to trim with scissors.
