Direct fit
Match the frame label to the artwork size when you do not want a mat, for example an 8 × 10 frame for an 8 × 10 print.
The inch-based frame reference
Photo frame sizes in inches
Compare standard inch frame labels, check exact centimeter conversions, and choose a frame that fits your photos, prints, and documents.
Standard sizes
Standard photo frame sizes in inches
Inch frames are sold with nominal labels such as 8 × 10. The centimeter column shows the exact conversion for comparison.
| Inch frame | Exact cm | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| 4 × 6 in | 10.16 × 15.24 cm | Everyday snapshots |
| 5 × 7 in | 12.7 × 17.78 cm | Desk portraits |
| 8 × 10 in | 20.32 × 25.4 cm | Portraits and mats |
| 8 × 12 in | 20.32 × 30.48 cm | Camera-ratio prints |
| 11 × 14 in | 27.94 × 35.56 cm | Medium wall display |
| 12 × 12 in | 30.48 × 30.48 cm | Square art and albums |
| 16 × 20 in | 40.64 × 50.8 cm | Statement portraits |
| 18 × 24 in | 45.72 × 60.96 cm | Posters and art prints |
| 20 × 24 in | 50.8 × 60.96 cm | Large portraits |
| 20 × 30 in | 50.8 × 76.2 cm | Large 3:2 photography |
| 24 × 36 in | 60.96 × 91.44 cm | Full-size posters |
Paper formats
US Letter and A-series paper sizes for frames
Documents need a frame matched to the paper, either a direct fit or a matted frame one size up.
| Paper size | Exact size (in) | Exact size (cm) | Common frame choice |
|---|---|---|---|
| US Letter | 8.5 × 11 in | 21.59 × 27.94 cm | 8.5 × 11 frame or 11 × 14 matted |
| US Legal | 8.5 × 14 in | 21.59 × 35.56 cm | 8.5 × 14 frame |
| US Tabloid | 11 × 17 in | 27.94 × 43.18 cm | 11 × 17 frame |
| A4 | 8.27 × 11.69 in | 21.0 × 29.7 cm | A4 or 21 × 30 cm frame |
| A3 | 11.69 × 16.54 in | 29.7 × 42.0 cm | A3 frame |
Exact conversion
How inch labels convert to centimeters
Multiply each inch dimension by 2.54 to get the exact centimeter size. Inch labels are exact; rounded metric retail labels are only close.
1 inch = 2.54 centimeters8 × 10 in = 20.32 × 25.4 cm
Choose well
How to choose a frame size in inches
A frame label describes what fits inside, not the outside edge. Decide which layer you are matching before ordering.
Matted
Choose the next larger frame and a mat opening slightly smaller than the artwork, keeping roughly 1/8–1/4 inch overlap on each edge.
Aspect ratio
Check proportions before matching: a 4 × 6 photo and an 8 × 10 frame have different shapes and need a mat or cropping.
Inch frame answers
Photo frame sizes in inches FAQ
What are the most common photo frame sizes in inches?
Common inch sizes include 4 × 6, 5 × 7, 8 × 10, 11 × 14, 16 × 20, and 20 × 24. These cover snapshots, portraits, and wall displays sold across the US and Canada.
Is an 8 × 10 frame exactly 8 by 10 inches?
The label usually describes the artwork or backing size that fits inside, not the outside edge. Check the usable opening and moulding width before ordering, as tolerances vary by seller.
What is a 4 × 6 photo frame in centimeters?
4 × 6 inches converts exactly to 10.16 × 15.24 cm. Retail metric frames are often labelled 10 × 15 cm instead.
What frame size fits an 8.5 × 11 US Letter document?
Use a frame labelled 8.5 × 11 for a direct fit, or an 11 × 14 frame with a mat for a wider border.
Does a frame label describe the outside size of the frame?
No. A frame label normally describes the print or backing that fits inside. Moulding makes the outside dimensions larger than the label.