Choosing the Best Size Photos for Your Wall

A common question I get during ordering sessions is, “What size photos would look best on my wall?” Many people think of 8×10 or 11×14 prints as large, but when they see an image this size hung above a standard sized sofa or over a mantle, they realize just how small these prints actually are. When choosing the best size photos for your wall, bigger is often better.

Take a look at the Wall Display Guide below to see how different print sizes would look relative to your living space. Note that 5 x 7 and 8 x 10 sizes are best suited for small frames as table top displays. For walls, larger sizes almost always look best. 

Below is an example showing a 30 x 40 canvas in a living room with a full-sized sofa.

Many people think this is very large, but when they see it in the context of their living area they realize it’s the prefect size for a standalone image. Choosing the right size all depends on your room, wall space, and furniture. 

Generally, if you’re looking for a standalone image, this is a great starting size to consider!

TIP: Choose Artwork that Measures At Least Two Thirds Your Wall Space

Ideally, the width and length of the artwork you choose should cover 2/3 to 3/4 of your wall or if you plan to hang artwork above a sofa, dresser, or headboard, its best to select choose a size that is 2/3 to 3/4 the width of the furniture. 

Here is the same living room with an 11×14 sized canvas.  When you see what it looks like above a full-sized sofa, it really puts it into perspective how small it looks. And you can see, as a standalone image it just gets lost on the wall don’t you think?

Stop Guessing What Your Photos Will Look Like on Your Wall: I’ll Help You Choose the Best Size Photos

When you book a session with me, I will provide you with a guide that includes simple steps for taking a photo of the walls on which you would like to display one or more photos from your session. Before we meet for your design consultation and ordering appointment, I will create several custom designed wall layouts that will show you what your photos will look like on your own walls. Pretty cool, huh? This will allow you to see how great the images from your session will actually look in your home!

During your pre-session consultation appointment, we’ll chat about the type of wall art that you envision, and which rooms and walls you’d love to fill with images from your session. Knowing this ahead of time allows me to create photos best-suited for your space. Then together, we will pick the best size photos for your home.

My families LOVE being able to see layouts that work with their particular room/wall and tell me this makes the process of choosing the right image, layout, or size for their home effortless.

Your Family Is Art

Are you ready to decorate your walls with images of your children and family? Imagine walking into your living room every day and seeing these memories beautifully showcased? And did you know that displaying your family photos has actually been shown to boost children’s self-esteem? Pretty amazing, right? Check out my post on what psychologists say about the value of displaying family photos in your home.

Want some inspiration for your walls? Here are some beautiful Wall Displays.

I hope you found this helpful! I’d love to hear from you in the comments below.

Want to learn more about a family portrait & lifestyle session with me? Check out my FAQ page to see what a session with me is like.

Ready to book your family portrait session? Get in touch HERE!

xo,