What Size Prints Do You Need?

Jan 19

When selecting wall art, one of the most important considerations is size. Often people think they want a 16 x 20 because they are familiar with the size. However, that size can look quite small depending on where it is placed. lots of thought should be given to the best size for your location, and that is something I can help you with in person. But here are some general guidelines.

Large prints running from 20×24 to 24×36 (or larger) have impact and are meant to be viewed from a distance. They are the perfect choice for the space over a sofa, a credenza, or a fireplace. They can easily be viewed from a distance so they can be enjoyed from many different view points in a home or office. A large print can be combined with other sized prints to make a showpiece to show off different portraits with different poses, family members or company officers. These wall grouping offer the choice to have multiple images with big impact.

Mid-sized prints like 11x14s or 16x20s are ideal for small wall areas. I have had clients order 16x20s on metal to put in a bathroom or a small wall space between doorways. They are big enough to really be seen on a wall from close distances, but they still require closer viewing to see details.

Small prints, like 8x10s, are perfect to sit on a desk or book shelf. For me, these are the happy reminders during a work day of good memories. They are also nice gifts for relatives, in particular those who may not have much space. With prints this size, you must be close to it to really see it well, and those with poor eye sight will have difficulty making out faces and details.

Another option is a wall gallery. These can be nice in places like stairways, and they can be added on to over the years. At my vacation home in West Virginia I have a gallery wall in our staircase that opens up to our main room with a cathedral ceiling. On it I have combined images from some of our favorite trips along with images of family. It is a work in progress to be added onto over the years, but it brings me joy and I often pause when going up or down the stairs to enjoy the pictures and the memories they bring of previous pets, of children and grandchildren, and of happy travels.

I will come to your home to help you choose what size prints wil best suit your needs, as well as halping you decide what type of print (paper, metal, canvas, or acrylic) as well as what type of frame might work best. I also offer other types of prints, such as albums and folio boxes if you do not have much wall space but want lots of images.