on June 04, 2026
Frame sizes are the most practical question in framing, and the most commonly confused. The confusion comes from a mismatch between the size of the paper, the size of the image, and the size of the frame — which are three different measurements.
This guide clarifies all of them.
The Three Measurements That Matter
Paper/print size is the full dimensions of the printed sheet — including any white border around the image. This is what you measure when you hold the print in your hand.
Image size is the dimensions of the actual image area, excluding any border. If you're framing with a mat, the mat opening will be cut to this size or slightly smaller (to overlap the image edge and prevent the print from falling through).
Frame size is the inner opening of the frame — the space the frame is designed to hold. A frame labelled 30x40cm will hold a 30x40cm print.
The frame size should match the paper/print size if you're framing without a mat. If you're framing with a mat, the frame size should be larger than the print size to accommodate the mat border.
Standard Frame Sizes
The most common standard frame sizes are: 10x15cm (4x6 inches), 13x18cm (5x7 inches), 20x25cm (8x10 inches), 30x40cm (12x16 inches), 40x50cm (16x20 inches), 50x60cm (20x24 inches), and 50x70cm (20x28 inches).
These correspond to common print sizes from photo labs and online print services. If you're ordering a print specifically to frame, ordering at one of these standard sizes will give you the widest range of frame options.
A-Series Sizes
The ISO A-series — A0 through A6 — is the standard paper size system used across Europe, Australia, and most of the world outside North America. Common framing sizes within this system: A4 (21x29.7cm), A3 (29.7x42cm), A2 (42x59.4cm), A1 (59.4x84.1cm).
Note that A-series sizes have a specific aspect ratio (1:√2) that doesn't match common frame proportions. An A4 print framed without a mat requires an A4-specific frame. An A4 print framed with a mat can be placed in a larger frame with the mat border filling the difference. See our dedicated guide on what size frame fits an A4 print.
Photo Print Sizes
Standard photo print sizes vary slightly between regions. In the US: 4x6, 5x7, 8x10, 11x14 inches. In metric markets: 10x15cm, 13x18cm, 20x25cm, 28x35cm. Most photo lab print sizes have corresponding standard frame sizes available.
Choosing the Right Size for Your Wall
Frame size should be proportionate to the wall space available. A useful principle: the frame (or arrangement of frames) should occupy between one half and two thirds of the wall width in its primary viewing direction. A frame significantly smaller than this looks lost; one significantly larger feels oppressive.
For above a sofa: the frame arrangement should be roughly the same width as the sofa, or slightly narrower. For above a console table or sideboard: the arrangement can be slightly wider than the furniture below, but not dramatically so.
Browse ONE MAAY's full picture frame range across all standard sizes.
