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How to Choose the Right Picture Frame Size for Your Photos

A simple guide to picking 4x6, 5x7, or 8x10 silver picture frames—based on resolution, crop ratios, and where the photo will live.

Frame Sizing 6 min read
Silver plated 5x7 picture frame displaying a portrait photo on a bedside table

Check your photo resolution in 10 seconds

Aim for at least 300 DPI (dots per inch) at the size you plan to print. Quick math:

  • 4x6 print → minimum 1200 x 1800 px
  • 5x7 print → minimum 1500 x 2100 px
  • 8x10 print → minimum 2400 x 3000 px

On iPhone and most Android phones, open the photo, tap info (ⓘ), and you’ll see the pixel dimensions. If you are under the numbers above, choose a smaller frame size or print slightly smaller and use a mat.

When to choose 4x6 vs 5x7 vs 8x10

4x6 — The Classic (everyday snapshots)

  • Great for desks, shelves, and nightstands.
  • Best if your photo is candid, mobile-shot, or slightly lower resolution.
  • Pairs perfectly with the Frapery 4x6 silver frame for small displays.

5x7 — The Portrait (gift-ready & detail-friendly)

  • Ideal for portraits, engagement photos, and newborn shots.
  • Adds presence without overpowering a console or bookshelf.
  • Choose if your photo is at least 1500x2100 px (most modern phones qualify).

8x10 — The Gallery (statement pieces)

  • Best for a hero photo in a living room, dining room, or hallway.
  • Needs a crisp file: 2400x3000 px or higher for tack-sharp results.
  • Use as the anchor for a gallery wall, surrounded by 4x6 and 5x7 frames.

Crop ratios that keep your subject safe

Use these aspect ratios when you crop so nothing important gets cut off:

  • 4x6 → 3:2 ratio
  • 5x7 → 5:7 ratio (custom crop on most phones)
  • 8x10 → 4:5 ratio

Tip: leave a little breathing room around heads and hands—especially for 5x7 and 8x10—so the frame edge doesn’t feel tight. If you’re mixing sizes, crop the same scene in both 3:2 and 4:5 so you can print a 4x6 for the desk and an 8x10 for the wall.

Printing checklist (save before you order)

  1. Confirm resolution meets the minimum for your size (see above).
  2. Select the right crop ratio (3:2, 5:7, or 4:5).
  3. Export as high-quality JPEG, sRGB color profile.
  4. Ask for matte or luster paper to reduce glare behind glass.
  5. Wipe prints gently with a microfiber cloth before framing.

Quick pick:

Desk or shelf? Choose 4x6. Gift or portrait? Go 5x7. Statement piece or gallery anchor? Pick 8x10. Our Signature Collection covers all three with matching silver finishes.

Ready to frame it?

Pick the size, then pair it with our tarnish-resistant silver plated frame and velvet backing.