The Complete Guide to Standard Photo Sizes

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by Portraits Refined Team

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Learn the different photo sizes to find the right one for you. The correct dimensions are essential for design projects and photo prints.

Close-up of a person's hand as they hand an image.
Photo courtesy of Pexels.

The photo size you use depends on the purpose. There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to photo sizes.

When posting an image on a website, the dimensions affect speed and user experience.

When printing a photo, the proportions affect how the print looks and if you can find a frame.

The following covers everything you need to know about photo sizes. You’ll be able to choose the right one for your needs.

Standard photo print sizes

Framed photo of a family on a desk.
Photo by David Em/Portraits Refined and Canva.

Photo print sizes tell you the possible dimensions you can print your photos.

The dimensions are in inches, and there’s no rule for orientation. It can be horizontal or vertical as long as it fits the print size.

The following are the standard image sizes for print:

  • 3 x 5 inches.
  • 4 x 4 inches.
  • 4 x 6 inches.
  • 5 x 7 inches.
  • 8 x 8 inches.
  • 8 x 10 inches.
  • 8.5 x 11 inches.
  • 9 x 16 inches.
  • 11 x 14 inches.
  • 11 x 16 inches.
  • 12 x 12 inches.
  • 12 x 18 inches.
  • 18 x 24 inches.
  • 20 x 30 inches.
  • 24 x 36 inches.

International A series photo print sizes

Many photo printing services use standard photo print sizes. Some may list the International A series print sizes (ISO 216).

The largest size is A0, which is one square meter. Each number after that is half of the size of the previous one.

The following are the International photo print sizes in inches:

  • A0: 33 x 46.81 inches.
  • A1: 23.39 x 33 inches.
  • A2: 16.54 x 23.36 inches.
  • A3: 11.69 x 16.54 inches.
  • A4: 8.27 x 11.69 inches.
  • A5: 5.83 x 8.27 inches.
  • A6: 4.13 x 5.83 inches.
  • A7: 2.91 x 4.13 inches.
  • A8: 2 x 2.9 inches.
  • A9: 1.5 x 2 inches.
  • A10: 1 x 1.5 inches.

Standard photo sizes for social media

Person on social media in their car.
Photo courtesy of Canva.

If you’re sharing photos on social media, use the correct sizes to showcase the best quality.

Since different platforms recommend different sizes, the following is a complete guide:

  • Instagram posts: 1080 x 1080 pixels.
  • Facebook posts: 1200 x 630 pixels.
  • Pinterest image: 1000 x 1500 pixels.
  • Twitter image: 1600 x 900 pixels.
  • LinkedIn post: 1200 x 627 pixels.

Aspect ratio

Aside from photo size, the aspect ratio is another essential factor. The aspect ratio is the width relative to its height.

Using the right one ensures the image fits the frame.

The incorrect aspect ratio means you may need to crop your photo or not print it.

When taking pictures, allow space around your image for cropping.

It ensures you can print the image regardless of the print size.

Frequently asked questions

What size is a wallet photo?

There are two standard wallet photo sizes, 2 x 3 inches and 2.5 by 3.5 inches. Each size prints four images on paper measuring 4 x 6 inches or 5 x 7 inches.

What size is a passport photo?

Passport photos are 2 x 2 inches. The smallest pixel dimensions are 600 x 600 pixels. It must show your entire head with room above and below.

Where can I print photos?

You have many options for printing photos. The best places include Nations Photo Lab, CVS Photo, Mpix, Snapfish, Printique, Shutterfly, Walmart Photo, and Walgreens Photo.

Conclusion

It’s essential to understand the different photo sizes.

Your photos will print the way you want, and you can post pictures with the correct dimensions online.

Knowing the standard photo sizes allows you to optimize your images.

Related: Glossy vs. Matte Photo Prints

Featured image courtesy of Pexels.

About Portraits Refined

Portraits Refined (PR) is a media company that publishes the latest expert-backed portrait photography tips, in-depth camera gear reviews, and advice to grow your photography business. Learn more about Portraits Refined