Picture frames come in a wide range of sizes, each with its own unique style and purpose. From small, minimalist frames for single photos to large, ornate frames for multiple images, there is a size to suit every need.
Whether you’re looking to display a cherished family photo, a piece of artwork, or a special memory, the right frame size can help to enhance and complement the image it holds. In this guide, we’ll explore the various picture frame sizes available and discuss how to choose the best size for your specific needs.
Standard Picture Frame Size Chart
There are a variety of standard picture frame sizes that are commonly used. Some of the most common sizes include:
| Picture Size | Frame Size | Mat Opening |
| 4″ x 6″ | 8″ x 10″ | 3.75″ x 5.75″ |
| 5″ x 7″ | 5″ x 7″ | No Mat |
| 5″ x 7″ | 8″ x 10″ | 3.75″ x 5.75″ |
| 8″ x 10″ | 8″ x 10″ | No Mat |
| 8″ x 10″ | 11″ x 14″ | 3.75″ x 5.75″ |
| 8.5″ x 11″ | 8.5″ x 11″ | No Mat |
| 8.5″ x 11″ | 11″ x 14″ | 3.75″ x 5.75″ |
| 11″ x 14″ | 11″ x 14″ | No Mat |
| 11″ x 14″ | 16″ x 20″ | 3.75″ x 5.75″ |
| 16″ x 20″ | 16″ x 20″ | No Mat |
| 16″ x 20″ | 20″ x 24″ | 3.75″ x 5.75″ |
These are some standard sizes but the frames can be found in any size depending on the manufacturer and they can also be custom-made to order.
It’s worth noting that these are standard frame sizes, but the actual size of the image that they hold will typically be slightly smaller to account for the width of the frame itself.
Common Frame Sizes for Pictures
1. Frames for 4″ x 6″ Pictures
The 4″x 6″ size is the postcard size that’s why it is the most common photograph size among all.
You can use the frame sizes 6″ x 8″ or 8″ x 10″ for these sizes of pictures if you want to add a mat around your picture.
2. Frames for 5″ x 7″ Pictures
The 5″ x 7″ size of pictures is the best choice for small spaces because this picture stands out differently due to their compact size. These pictures are mostly used in portrait frames.
If you are not interested to use a mat with your picture you can use a 5″ x 7″ size frame and if you want to use a mat with your picture you can use a medium-sized picture frame of 8 x 10 inches or 11 x 14 inches.
3. Frames for 8″ x 10″ Pictures
These 8” x 10” pictures are very close to standard A4 size paper sheets. So if you are not interested in using a mat you can select a 8” x 10” frame. These sizes of pictures are mostly used for landscape and home decor purposes.
If you want to use a mat you can choose any size of frame 11″ x 14″, 12″ x 14″, 16″ x 16″, 16″ x 18″, or 16″ x 20″. You can choose any of the above frames according to your mat and picture requirements.
4. Frames for 16″ x 20″ Pictures
This 16” x 20” is considered a large size picture that’s why these are mostly used as wall art and sometimes on the tabletop as well.
You can use the frame of the same size if you do not want to use a mat. If you want to use a mat you can choose bigger frames like 20″ x 24″ or 24” x 28”.
5. Frames for 20″ x 30″ Pictures
These large size of pictures are mostly used in wall art, fine art, or photography purposes.
You can use the same size 20″ x 30″ of frames if you don’t want to use mat or you can go with something like 24″ x 36″ if you are interested in using mat.
6. Frames for 22″ x 32″ Pictures
This 22″ x 32″ size is mostly used for art prints and posters.
Because these pictures are already quite larger, the mat is normally used with these pictures. However, if someone wants to use a mat, they can go with a 30″ x 40″ frame. This size is standard in bigger picture sizes.
Related: Standard Sizes Of Foam Boards
How to Choose The Right Picture Frame Size?
Choosing the right picture frame size for your photo or artwork is important for both aesthetic and practical reasons. Here are some things to consider when selecting a frame size:
- The size of the image: The size of the image should be the first thing to consider when selecting a frame. The image should fill the frame as much as possible without covering any important parts.
- The space where the frame will be hung: The size of the room and the location where the frame will be hung should also be taken into account. A larger frame will typically be more appropriate for a larger room, while a smaller frame may be more appropriate for a smaller space.
- The style of the frame: The style of the frame can also affect the overall look of the image. For example, a thin frame may work well for a modern image, while a more ornate frame may be more appropriate for a traditional image.
- The Purpose: For example, if the frame is for a family photo, you will want to choose a size that is large enough for everyone to be seen clearly. If the frame is for an art piece, you would want to consider the focal point of the artwork and the size needed to effectively display that.
- Lastly, the matting & the glass: Matting & Glass are also important to consider, The size of the matting and the glass will affect the overall size of the frame. A large matting will increase the overall size of the frame.
In general, it’s a good idea to take your time to consider all of these factors before making a final decision. And you can always take the help of a professional framer or consult with a designer if you need more help in deciding the right size of the frame for your art piece or photo.
Related: Standard Bubble Mailer Dimensions
FAQs
What are the standard sizes for picture frames?
Standard sizes for picture frames vary, but some common ones include:
4×6 inches
5×7 inches
8×10 inches
11×14 inches
16×20 inches
18×24 inches
24×36 inches
What is the formula for picture frame size?
Outer Frame Size = Photo Size + (2 x Frame Border Width)
For example, if you have a 5×7 photo and want to add a border of 1 inch around it, the outer frame size would be:
Outer Frame Size = 5 inches + (2 x 1 inch) = 5 inches + 2 inches = 7 inches (width) x 9 inches (height)
Is 12×16 a standard frame size?
12×16 is not a standard frame size, but it’s a common aspect ratio for printing and framing. You can easily find frames that fit this size by searching for custom frames or by using matting techniques to fit a 12×16 photo into a standard frame size.
What size frame for a 12×12 photo?
For a 12×12 photo, you can use a 12×12 frame. However, if you prefer to add a mat border around the photo, you will need a larger frame. The outer frame size will depend on the desired width of the mat border. For example, if you want to add a 2-inch mat border, the outer frame size would be:
Outer Frame Size = 12 inches + (2 x 2 inches) = 12 inches + 4 inches = 16 inches (width) x 16 inches (height)