Different Image Crops and Sizes

This might not be what you’re thinking! I’m NOT talking about corn and barley and flax. I’m talking about image size considerations! It’s one of the most popular questions I find that I get asked. What is the difference in sizes?
Let me tell you MY personal spin on image sizes and cropping.

To start with, I chose an average crop for myself. A 16X24.
I then cropped that image to a 16X20. That 4 inches doesn’t sound like a lot but it does put a different spin on the image, doesn’t it?
Notice the areas no longer in the image in the 16X20. It makes quite a difference in the over all appearance.
Let’s look at the size comparison side by side….

Now, let’s take a look at the 11X14, the 8X12, and the 8X10 side by side. Be sure to notice the amount of image that is in each crop compared to the others.

Notice the size differance between the 16X20 and the 11X14. HUGE difference. Something to really think about when considering an image for that perfect spot on the wall!

Here is a little tidbit….did you know that 8X12s, 8X10s, 5X7’s, and smaller are considered desk images? Unless several are arranged in an attractive grouping complete with frame and matting or placed with a larger image, they just don’t quite have the WOW impact most of us want from an image we choose to put up to stand alone on our walls.

Honestly, I’m guilty as sin in this regard. I have 8X10s hanging up. I love them. But now that I sit back and study them and their individual placement…I am disappointed in the impact they have. I am going to try taking them down and arranging them together on some shelves throughout my living room and kitchen and choose 3 or 4 16X24 inch images to fill those two walls. When I get it all done I’ll post images from before and after. But, I digress…let’s move on!
Here is the 5X7, 4X6, 4X5, and wallet size differences. Once again, notice the amount of original image within each crop.

In a portrait with a single person in it, the various cropping ratios might not make that much of a difference to you. But trust me, it depends upon the image in question! If there is more than one person, or a sporting event or landscape, it can make or break a wonderful image.

Here is a team roping image cropped to the various sizes to show you how an image can be preserved or wrecked by the wrong crop. Keep in mind that for every image, it can be different.

As you can see, the crop can make a huge difference in images! Just something to think about the next time you’re wanting to order an image!

Michelle