Guide To Ordering Bridal Photos For Your Wedding

how big to order bridal photo for wedding

Wedding photos are a great way to relive the happiest day of your life. When ordering prints of your bridal photos, it's important to consider the scale and where you plan to hang the photo. If you're gifting a wedding photo, it's best to size them at or under 8 x 10. For a wedding portrait, a small size of up to 9 x 12 is recommended. If you want to go bigger, a 16 x 20 print is a good option, and you can even go up to 24 x 36 for a statement piece above a mantle or large piece of furniture.

Characteristics Values
Small wedding portrait size Up to 9" x 12"
Medium wedding portrait size Up to 16" x 20"
Minimum size for headshots 11" x 14"
Minimum size for full-length portraits 16" x 20"
Maximum size for environmental portraits 24" x 36"
Gift size 8" x 10"

shunbridal

Consider the photo's content

When it comes to choosing the perfect wedding photo to print and frame, it's essential to consider the content of the image. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

The Subject Matter

If you're opting for a close-up or headshot, a smaller print size will suffice. For example, an 11" x 14" print is recommended for headshots. However, if you're considering a full-length photo or a shot that includes a beautiful landscape, a larger print size will showcase these elements effectively. For full-length portraits, a minimum of 16" x 20" is suggested, while environmental portraits can go even larger at up to 24" x 36".

The Level of Detail

Some photos lend themselves to being printed in larger sizes due to the level of detail they contain. For instance, if your wedding photo includes intricate details such as a stunning dress, an elaborate hairstyle, or a gorgeous bouquet, a larger print will allow these finer points to shine.

The Number of Subjects

Consider the number of people in the photo. If it's just the happy couple, a more intimate size might be appropriate. However, if the photo includes the entire wedding party or extended family, a larger print will ensure that everyone is visible and allow for better recognition of faces.

The Expression and Emotion

The expression and emotion captured in the photo can also guide your decision. A joyful photo of the couple laughing together or sharing a kiss might be worth blowing up to showcase those emotions. On the other hand, a more subdued or romantic moment might be better suited to a smaller, more intimate print.

The Final Display Space

Finally, consider the space where the framed photo will hang. If it's above a mantle or a large piece of furniture, a larger print may be appropriate. For gallery walls or bedside tables, smaller prints are often preferred.

Remember, these are just guidelines, and the most important factor is choosing a photo that holds a special memory for you. Trust your instincts, and don't be afraid to go with your heart when selecting the perfect wedding photo to display in your home.

shunbridal

Think about where it will hang

When deciding how big to order your bridal photo for your wedding, it's important to consider where you want to hang it. This will help you determine the appropriate size. Ask yourself the following questions:

Is the photo going to be a statement piece above a mantle or large piece of furniture? If so, you may want to opt for a larger size, such as 16" x 20" or even 24" x 36". A larger print can also be a great way to showcase a beautiful landscape in addition to the happy couple.

Will the photo be part of a gallery wall? If so, consider the number of photos you want to include and the overall size of the wall. You may want to opt for a smaller size, such as 8" x 10" or 9" x 12", to ensure it fits well with the other pieces.

Is the photo going to accent a bedside table or smaller space? If so, an extra small size of up to 5" x 7" may be best. This will ensure the photo is visible and doesn't overwhelm the space.

Are there any specific dimensions you need to work with? For example, if you plan to hang the photo above a sofa, a size of 16" x 24" is recommended. For a photo to hang above a fireplace, a size of 20" x 30" is suggested.

It's also important to keep in mind that the mat and frame moulding will add to the total size of the photo. When deciding on the size, cut out or tape together paper in the dimensions you're considering to see how it fits in the intended space. This will help you visualize the final product and ensure you order the right size.

By considering these factors, you can ensure that your bridal photo is the perfect size for its intended hanging place and becomes a cherished part of your home décor.

The Best Knots for Tying the Knot

You may want to see also

shunbridal

Account for the frame and mat size

When ordering a bridal photo for your wedding, it's important to consider the frame and mat size to ensure the final piece looks well-balanced and aesthetically pleasing. Here are some tips to help you account for the frame and mat size:

Understand Mat Board Measurements

First, familiarize yourself with the two different measurements associated with mat boards. The overall mat size refers to the outside measurement of the mat board, while the mat window measurement indicates the size of the opening where the photo will be visible. The mat window should typically be slightly smaller than the photo to allow for some overlap, keeping the photo securely in place within the frame.

Choose the Right Mat Size

The size of the mat border can impact the overall look of the framed photo. Larger mat borders, especially when paired with bold or bright colors, can give your photo a "gallery" look, making it stand out on a large wall. On the other hand, narrower borders are recommended if you want the mat to complement rather than overwhelm the photo, especially if you've chosen a vibrant color.

Consider Layering Mats

If you want to add depth or a subtle touch of color to your framed photo, consider layering mats. This technique involves using two or three mats of different colors, with the top layer being the most visible, and the lower layers peeking through in smaller amounts. This is a great way to highlight a specific color from the photo without opting for a full-color border.

Plan for the Total Size

Remember that the mat and frame will add to the overall size of your displayed photo. If you have a specific space in mind for your framed photo, such as above a mantle or as part of a gallery wall, consider the additional dimensions they will contribute. For example, wider mouldings and mats can add several inches to the final size of the piece.

Standard Frame and Mat Sizes

Standard frame sizes often match common photo printing sizes, such as 4x6, 5x7, and 8x10. However, if you plan to include a mat, you will need to select a frame size larger than your printed photo to accommodate the additional border. When ordering standard frames with mats, the mat window is typically smaller than the print size, allowing for more of the image to be visible.

By considering these tips, you can ensure that your bridal photo, along with its frame and mat, will be the perfect addition to your wedding décor and a cherished keepsake for years to come.

shunbridal

Understand the moulding width

When ordering a bridal photo for your wedding, it is important to consider the moulding width, as this will impact the final size of the framed photo. The moulding width refers to the distance across the face of the frame, which will be visible when the photo is hung on the wall.

While there is no standard formula for determining the appropriate moulding width, it is generally recommended to use wider mouldings for larger photos and narrower mouldings for smaller photos. For example, Framebridge's widest mouldings, such as the Bowery or Chelsea, add approximately 4 inches to the width and height of the photo, while their slimmest mouldings, like the Mandalay or Newport, add about 1.5 inches to each dimension.

When selecting a moulding width, it is essential to consider the final size of the framed photo and the space where it will hang. If the photo is intended to be a statement piece above a mantle or large piece of furniture, a wider moulding may be more appropriate. On the other hand, if the photo is part of a gallery wall or meant to accent a bedside table, a narrower moulding might be a better choice.

As a rule of thumb, consider the following moulding widths based on frame size:

  • For frame sizes from 8"x10" to 15"x19", use mouldings with widths ranging from 3/4" to 1-1/4".
  • For frame sizes from 16"x20" to 23"x25", opt for mouldings with widths between 1.5" and 2-1/4".
  • For frame sizes of 24"x36" and larger, select mouldings with widths of 2-1/2" or wider.

It's worth noting that these are just guidelines, and the specific moulding width chosen should ultimately be based on aesthetic considerations and the desired look of the final framed photo.

shunbridal

Order a size smaller than 8 x 10 for gifts

When it comes to bridal photo gifts, a size smaller than 8 x 10 is ideal for several reasons. Firstly, smaller prints are often more versatile in terms of display options. 8 x 10 prints, while suitable for walls, can be too large for some spaces, such as desks or bedside tables. Smaller sizes, such as 5 x 7 or 4 x 6, are perfect for gifting as they can be easily displayed in a variety of locations without taking up too much space.

Another advantage of ordering a size smaller than 8 x 10 is cost-effectiveness. Smaller prints are generally more affordable, allowing you to gift high-quality photos without breaking the bank. This is especially beneficial if you plan to give multiple prints as gifts to family members, bridal parties, or close friends.

Additionally, opting for a smaller size can enhance the visual appeal of the photo. Some images may need to be cropped to fit larger print sizes, resulting in the loss of certain details or a less balanced composition. By choosing a smaller size, you can avoid excessive cropping and preserve the integrity of the image.

When selecting a size smaller than 8 x 10, it's important to consider the framing and matting. As the final size of the piece will include the width of the moulding and the mat, a smaller photo can ensure the overall dimensions remain suitable for your intended display area. For example, a slim moulding and mat may add about 6.5" to the length and width of a 4" x 6" photo, resulting in a final frame size that fits your space perfectly.

Lastly, smaller prints can be more practical for the recipient. They are easier to store, transport, and incorporate into existing decor. By gifting a size smaller than 8 x 10, you provide the recipient with a cherished memory that can be seamlessly integrated into their living or working space without requiring significant adjustments.

Frequently asked questions

The ideal size for a bridal photo depends on the purpose of the photo. If you're giving a wedding photo as a gift, it's best to size them at or under 8" x 10". If it's a family photo, consider keeping it to extra small size (up to 5" x 7"). For a wedding portrait, you can go for a small size (up to 9" x 12"), and if it's an artsy abstract photo, consider a medium size (up to 16" x 20").

When ordering a large bridal photo, it's important to consider the space you're trying to fill. If it's going to be a statement piece above a mantle or large piece of furniture, you may want to go for a larger size. Also, keep in mind that the mat and frame moulding will add to the total size, so factor that into your decision.

Yes, for bridal headshots, a minimum size of 11" x 14" is recommended, while for full-length portraits, a size of 16" x 20" or larger is suggested.

To decide on the perfect size, consider the viewing distance and the wall size. For example, a size of 16" x 24" is recommended for above a sofa, while a larger size of 20" x 30" is suggested for above a fireplace. You can also cut out or tape together paper in different sizes to see how it would fit in the desired space.

Written by
Reviewed by

Explore related products

Share this post
Print
Did this article help you?

Leave a comment