Wall Art Size Guide | danarosephotography

Your Portraits As Fine Art

A Guide to High-Impact Decor

Selecting the Proper Size Portrait

I recommend that my clients select one high impact or statement portrait that captures the beauty of their family and to be showcased an area of their home where they can enjoy seeing it daily. Think of an area where you ‘live’ the most, and where others will see the portrait!

Once you have selected your favorite image, the second most important decision you’ll make will be the appropriate portrait size for your wall. There are three main considerations for that decision.

Room Size: Consider where the portrait might hang. Is the ceiling height 8 feet or 15 feet? How large is the wall and the room? Can you see it from 20 feet away? These factors play a large role in determining the best size. Your family room, formal living or dining room, the foyer as you enter your home – all are very popular choices for where to hang portrait art.
Face size: Seeing everyone’s expression is very important. For an average size room, with a viewing distance of 8-10 feet, a face height of at least 4″ to 6″ is recommended. Any smaller and expressions are lost, and you will not get the viewing pleasure you deserve.
Viewing distance will also determine portrait size. Again, I recommend face sizes in the portraits to be at least 6″ based on an average viewing distance of eight to ten feet.

If this family photograph is one of the most impressive captures of your family to date – showcase it in style!

How to Determine Sizing

If you wanted to hang a portrait over your sofa:

Measure your sofa to determine its total length. Most three seater sofas are at least 80 inches wide.
A horizontal (or square) focal piece of art should be at least 50-75% as wide as the sofa it hangs above. For example, if your sofa is 80 inches wide (6.5 feet), choose a portrait that is at least 40 inches wide.
Many people hang art too high. Be sure to center your portrait in the wall space above the sofa, with the bottom edge of the frame approximately 6 to 9 inches above the back.
The contemporary look of my gallery wrap canvases are a great value because they do not require glass and framing. However, if you will be hanging a large print, please allow an additional 3-6 inches around the portrait for a custom frame.
If you can’t decide on just one statement portrait, consider a grouping of smaller portraits and space them 2-3 inches apart. Make sure the overall space you cover is at least 70% of the width of the wall area. During your Portrait Reveal Appointment, I will be happy to help you choose an ideal wall for your display and choose a grouping perfect for your home.