Understanding Aspect Ratios in Photo PrintingUpdated a day ago
One of the most common issues customers encounter when ordering prints is their image not fitting the selected print size exactly. This results in either part of the image being cropped off, or white bars appearing on the edges of the print. This guide explains why this happens and what your options are.
What is an Aspect Ratio?
An aspect ratio is the proportional relationship between the width and height of an image. It is typically expressed as two numbers separated by a colon, such as 3:2 or 4:3. Different cameras and devices capture images at different aspect ratios, and print sizes also have their own aspect ratios.
When the aspect ratio of your image does not match the aspect ratio of your chosen print size, adjustments need to be made.
Common Camera Aspect Ratios
| Camera/Device Type | Aspect Ratio |
|---|---|
| 35mm Film Cameras | 3:2 |
| Most DSLR & Mirrorless Cameras | 3:2 |
| Micro Four Thirds Cameras | 4:3 |
| Most Smartphones | 4:3 or 16:9 |
| Medium Format (6x4.5) | 4:3 |
| Medium Format (6x6) | 1:1 (Square) |
| Medium Format (6x7) | 7:6 |
Common Print Sizes and Their Aspect Ratios
| Print Size | Aspect Ratio | Best Match For |
|---|---|---|
| 4x6" | 3:2 | 35mm film, DSLR, Mirrorless |
| 5x5" | 1:1 | Square format, Instagram |
| 5x7" | 7:5 | Slight crop required for most cameras |
| 6x8" | 4:3 | Smartphones, Micro Four Thirds |
| 8x10" | 5:4 | Significant crop from 3:2 images |
| 8x12" | 3:2 | 35mm film, DSLR, Mirrorless |
| 11x14" | 14:11 | Crop required for most formats |
| 16x20" | 5:4 | Significant crop from 3:2 images |
| 16x24" | 3:2 | 35mm film, DSLR, Mirrorless |
| 20x30" | 3:2 | 35mm film, DSLR, Mirrorless |
What Happens When Aspect Ratios Do Not Match?
When your image aspect ratio does not match your selected print size, there are two options:
Option 1: Crop to Specified Size
The image is enlarged to fill the entire print area, and any parts that extend beyond the print dimensions are cropped off. This means you will lose some of the image on the top and bottom, or on the left and right sides, depending on the orientation.
Example: Printing a 3:2 image at 8x10" (5:4 ratio) will result in the sides being cropped off to fit the narrower format.
Best for: Images where the subject is centred and there is less important detail around the edges.
Option 2: Scale to Fit
The entire image is scaled to fit within the print dimensions without any cropping. Because the aspect ratios do not match, this leaves empty space on either the top and bottom, or the left and right sides. This empty space appears as white bars on the print.
Example: Printing a 3:2 image at 8x10" (5:4 ratio) will result in white bars on the top and bottom of the print.
Best for: Images where every part of the frame is important and you do not want to lose any detail. The white bars can be trimmed off after printing if desired.
How to Avoid Aspect Ratio Issues
The best way to avoid unexpected cropping or white bars is to prepare your files before uploading:
1. Choose Print Sizes That Match Your Camera
If you shoot with a 35mm film camera or DSLR (3:2 ratio), stick to print sizes that match:
- 4x6"
- 8x12"
- 12x18"
- 16x24"
- 20x30"
2. Crop Your Images Before Uploading
If you want a specific print size that does not match your camera's aspect ratio, crop your image to the correct proportions before uploading. This gives you full control over what gets cropped out.
In Adobe Lightroom:
- Select the Crop tool
- Click on the aspect ratio dropdown
- Enter your desired print dimensions (e.g. 8x10)
- Adjust the crop to your liking
- Export as JPEG at 100% quality
In Adobe Photoshop:
- Select the Crop tool
- Enter your dimensions in the options bar (e.g. 8 in x 10 in)
- Adjust the crop area
- Press Enter to apply
- Save as JPEG at maximum quality
3. Add Your Own Borders
If you prefer the "scale to fit" look but want coloured borders instead of white, you can add your own borders in photo editing software before uploading. Simply create a canvas at your desired print dimensions, place your image centred on the canvas, and fill the background with your preferred colour.
Quick Reference: Matching Print Sizes to Camera Formats
35mm Film / DSLR / Mirrorless (3:2):
Perfect match: 4x6", 8x12", 12x18", 16x24", 20x30"
Minor crop: 5x7"
Significant crop: 8x10", 11x14", 16x20"
Smartphone / Micro Four Thirds (4:3):
Perfect match: 6x8", 9x12", 12x16"
Minor crop: 4x6", 5x7"
Significant crop: 8x10", 8x12"
Square Format (1:1):
Perfect match: 5x5", 6x6", 8x8", 10x10", 12x12"
Still Have Questions?
If you are unsure about how your image will print or need advice on the best print size for your photos, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are happy to help you get the best results.
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 02 8041 7049