Choosing the right picture frame can be crucial for showcasing your photos, art, or posters effectively. Understanding standard picture frame sizes, and how they compare, ensures your artwork fits perfectly and looks its best. Whether you’re considering sizes in inches or centimeters, this comprehensive guide will help you Compare Picture Frame Sizes and make informed decisions for your framing needs.
Paper and Poster Picture Frame Sizes Compared
When framing paper documents or posters, the metric A-series sizes are commonly used internationally. Here’s a comparison table to help you understand these standard sizes:
| Exact Photo Size in cm | Similar Metric Size |
|---|---|
| A6 (10.5 x 14.8 cm) | 10 x 15 cm |
| A5 (14.8 x 21 cm) | 15 x 21 cm |
| A4 (21 x 29.7 cm) | 21 x 30 cm |
| A3 (29.7 x 42 cm) | 30 x 42 cm |
| A2 (42 x 59.4 cm) | 42 x 59 cm |
| A1 (59.4 x 84.1 cm) | 59 x 84 cm |
| A0 (84.1 x 118.8 cm) | 84 x 119 cm |
| B1 (70.7 x 100 cm) | 70 x 100 cm |
Standard Photo Picture Frame Sizes Compared
For photographs and general art framing, standard sizes often originate from inches, particularly in countries like the United States. Here’s a comparison of these common picture frame sizes:
| Inches | Exact Photo Size in cm | Similar Metric Size |
|---|---|---|
| 2.5 x 3.5 | 6.4 x 8.8 cm | 6 x 9 cm |
| 4 x 6 | 10.2 x 15.2 cm | 10 x 15 cm |
| 5 x 7 | 12.7 x 17.8 cm | 13 x 18 cm |
| 6 x 8 | 15.2 x 20.3 cm | 15 x 20 cm |
| 8 x 10 | 20.3 x 25.4 cm | 20 x 25 cm |
| 8 x 12 | 20.3 x 30.5 cm | 20 x 30 cm |
| 10 x 12 | 25.4 x 30.5 cm | 25 x 30 cm |
| 11 x 14 | 27.9 x 35.5 cm | 28 x 35 cm |
| 12 x 16 | 30.5 x 40.6 cm | 30 x 40 cm |
| 12 x 18 | 30.5 x 45.7 cm | 30 x 46 cm |
| 16 x 20 | 40.6 x 50.8 cm | 40 x 50 cm |
| 16 x 22 | 40.6 x 55.9 cm | 40 x 56 cm |
| 16 x 24 | 40.6 x 60.9 cm | 40 x 61 cm |
| 20 x 24 | 50.8 x 60.9 cm | 50 x 61 cm |
| 20 x 28 | 50.8 x 71.1 cm | 50 x 70 cm |
| 20 x 30 | 50.8 x 76.2 cm | 50 x 76 cm |
| 24 x 36 | 60.9 x 91.4 cm | 61 x 91 cm |
Standard Square Picture Frame Sizes Compared
Square frames are increasingly popular, especially for modern décor and social media prints. Here’s a comparison of standard square picture frame sizes:
| Inches | Exact Photo Size in cm | Similar Metric Size |
|---|---|---|
| 3 x 3 | 7.6 x 7.6 cm | 8 x 8 cm |
| 4 x 4 | 10.2 x 10.2 cm | 10 x10 cm |
| 5 x 5 | 12.7 x 12.7 cm | 13 x 13 cm |
| 6 x 6 | 15.2 x 15.2 cm | 15 x 15 cm |
| 7 x 7 | 17.8 x 17.8 cm | 17 x 17 cm |
| 8 x 8 | 20.3 x 20.3 cm | 20 x 20 cm |
| 10 x 10 | 25.4 x 25.4 cm | 25 x 25 cm |
| 12 x 12 | 30.5 x 30.5 cm | 30 x 30 cm |
| 14 x 14 | 35.5 x 35.5 cm | 35 x 35 cm |
| 16 x 16 | 40.6 x 40.6 cm | 40 x 40 cm |
| 20 x 20 | 50.8 x 50.8 cm | 50 x 50 cm |
| 24 x 24 | 60.9 x 60.9 cm | 61 x 61 cm |
Visual Frame Size Comparison Chart
To better visualize and compare picture frame sizes, refer to these helpful diagrams. They illustrate how different standard frame dimensions relate to each other and how they might appear on a wall. These charts are invaluable tools for comparing proportions and ratios for scaling your displays.
Wall art poster size comparison chart to assist with gallery wall planning.
Understanding Common Standard Picture Frame Sizes
Navigating the world of picture frames involves understanding which sizes are most common and why. Here’s a closer look at popular standard picture frame dimensions used for photos and artworks, especially in regions like Australia.
1. 4×6″ Picture Frames
The 4×6 inch photo, equivalent to 10.2 x 15.2cm, is arguably the most ubiquitous photograph size. Its popularity stems from being the standard print size from photo kiosks and retail services. Closely resembling the A6 paper size (10.5 x 14.8cm), 4×6 prints are versatile and widely framed. You’ll find an extensive array of 4×6 picture frame options, from simple borders to elaborate multi-photo collage frames.
For those wanting a matted look, consider frames like 6×8 inch or 8×10 inch. These sizes provide a balanced mat border around the 4×6 photo, enhancing its presentation.
2. 5×7″ Picture Frames
Slightly larger than 4×6, the 5×7 inch photo (12.7 x 17.8cm) strikes a balance between impact and space-saving. This size is ideal for tabletop displays on desks, shelves, or mantels, yet substantial enough to showcase detail.
Pairing a 5×7 photo with an 8×10 or even a 10×12 picture frame with a mat creates an elegant and well-proportioned display, adding visual breathing room around the image.
3. 8×10″ Picture Frames
The 8×10 inch photo, measuring 20.3 x 25.4cm, is considered a medium-sized enlargement, perfect for family portraits and images you wish to feature prominently. Unlike smaller sizes primarily for tabletops, 8×10 frames transition well to wall display, making them a versatile choice.
To incorporate a matboard with an 8×10 photo, popular frame upgrades include 11×14, 12×16, or 16×20 inches. While the aspect ratio of 8×10 photos isn’t perfectly standard, slight mat border variations between horizontal and vertical orientations are generally accepted and visually appealing.
4. 16×20″ Picture Frames
At 16×20 inches (40.6 x 50.8cm), photos become large-format feature pieces. Ideal for wedding portraits or significant family gatherings, 16×20 prints command attention on walls, either as standalone pieces or within a gallery arrangement.
For a matted presentation of a 16×20 photo, consider using a 20×24 or even a 24×36 standard picture frame. A 20×24 frame with a mat offers a particularly well-balanced border, enhancing the impact of the large image.
5. A4 Picture Frames
A4 size (21×29.7cm) is the standard paper size in many countries, making A4 picture frames incredibly versatile. Commonly used for certificates, awards, documents, and children’s artwork, A4 frames are readily available in numerous styles.
For a matted A4 artwork, consider larger frames like 12×16 inches or A3. An A3 frame with an A4 mat is a frequent choice. However, for a more balanced mat border around A4 art, a 12×16 inch frame can be a superior option.
6. A3 Picture Frames
A3 size (29.7x42cm), double the size of A4, is a popular choice for enlarged prints, certificates, and children’s artwork. A3 picture frames are widely accessible and offer a step up in visual impact from A4.
When matting an A3 artwork, consider frames like 16×20 inches or A2. An A2 frame with an A3 mat is a common combination. However, a 16×20 inch frame can provide a more evenly proportioned mat border around A3 artwork.
7. A2 Picture Frames
A2 size (42×59.4cm), double A3 and four times A4, is a significant size jump, often used for medium-sized posters and impactful artwork. A2 picture frames are designed for wall display and are easily found in standard frame ranges.
For matting A2 artwork, consider A1 or 50x70cm frames. While an A1 frame with an A2 mat is typical, the border proportions can vary noticeably between horizontal and vertical orientations. A 50x70cm frame often provides a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing mat border for A2 pieces.
Explore a Wide Range of Photo Frames Online
Discover the extensive collection of Picture & Photo Frames at Profile Australia. Whether your style leans towards black frames, timber frames, natural oak frames, metal frames, poster frames, or unique shadow-box frames, we offer diverse framing solutions in various shapes, styles, and, most importantly, sizes to perfectly compare and choose from.
Proudly Australian made, our frames come in a spectrum of colours, including white, black, stone ash, polar ash, and brown chestnut timbers. We also provide cut-to-size matboard and foamboard services, ensuring your artwork integrates seamlessly with standard frame dimensions.
All Profile picture frames are crafted in Australia using eco-sustainable timbers and are backed by a lifetime guarantee, reflecting our commitment to quality and the environment.
