Choosing the right print size for your wall

Selecting the right print size to hang on your wall can be tricky, but it’s an essential part of achieving a balanced and aesthetically pleasing space. A little bit of planning can go a long way in helping you to choose which size to have your photo printed.

Framing vs. Gallery Wraps

While there are a number of ways to print your photos, the two most common ways to hang photography is either in a frame or as a frameless gallery wrap. Whichever you choose, just remember these guidelines are considering the outermost dimensions of the entire piece. For instance, if you have a print that is 32×40 with a 2 inch matte and metal frame, the overall dimensions would be 35×43 or possibly larger. Since gallery wraps are typically hung without an outer frame, simply consider the printed dimension of the wrap.

Consider the Size of the Wall

When hanging photography on a wall, it’s important to think about the overall size and proportion of the wall itself. As a rule of thumb:

– The print (including frame) should take up 60% to 75% of the available wall space when hung by itself.
– This proportion creates balance and ensures the piece doesn’t look too small or too large for the space.

If you’re working with a particularly large wall, consider using a single large piece or creating a gallery wall with several smaller pieces arranged together.

Keep Furniture in Mind

If you’re hanging photos above a piece of furniture, such as a sofa or a bed, the width of the frame should be around 1/2 to 3/4 the width of the furniture below it. This creates a visually harmonious look and prevents the art from feeling disproportionate.

Be sure to leave 6 to 12 inches of space between the bottom of the frame and the top of the furniture to avoid a cramped appearance.

Hang Artwork at Eye Level

A common mistake people make when hanging printed photos is positioning it too high. For optimal viewing, the center of your artwork should be at eye level, which is generally 57 to 60 inches from the floor.

If your room has particularly high or low ceilings, feel free to adjust this measurement to suit the space, but keeping the artwork at eye level is usually the best approach.

Arranging Multiple Pieces (Gallery Walls)

Gallery walls, or arrangements of multiple photos/artwork, are a great way to fill large spaces with personality. When creating a gallery wall, think of the entire arrangement as one piece of artwork. The overall size should still follow the general rule of taking up 60% to 75% of the wall space.

To maintain a cohesive look, keep the spacing between frames at 2 to 4 inches.

Room Size Matters

When decorating a smaller room, opt for smaller print size or collections of smaller prints to avoid overwhelming the space. In larger rooms, don’t be afraid to go big—larger pieces can make a dramatic statement and help anchor the room.

Final Thoughts

By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure that your print complements the size and style of your room. Whether you’re going for a minimalist look or creating a gallery wall, the right size and placement will enhance your space and make your photos stand out.