Have you noticed that your digital photos don't fit perfectly into a traditional frame? Or, maybe you were
surprised when the photo lab cropped away a portion of your photo to fit it onto the photo paper. The
reason for this is a difference in aspect ratio between newer digital photographs and photos taken with film.
What is aspect ratio?
Most digital photos have a slightly larger aspect ratio than film.
The relationship between the height of your photo to its length is called the aspect ratio. Televisions and
computer screens are also often measured in terms of their aspect ratio.
Traditional aspect ratio
Traditional 35mm photo film produces a photo with a 3:2 aspect ratio (a basic rectangle shape). You're
probably very familiar with seeing this aspect ratio, since it has been the standard for decades. This is the ratio that 4" x 6" prints are based on (as well as 5" x 7" and 8" x 10" prints).
Digital aspect ratio
Today's digital cameras are different from older cameras. Almost all digital cameras (with the
exception of digital SLRs) produce an image with a 4:3 aspect ratio (closer to a square). The
reason for this is that the first digital cameras were meant exclusively for use with computer
screens (most monitors use a 4:3 aspect ratio). That's how they've stayed ever since.
Digital photos fit in traditional frames by being cropped. This shows how much image you'll
lose with the three most common sizes.
Most of the photo frames you find in stores are manufactured in traditional sizes (4"x6", 5"x7", 8"x10"
and so on) with the older film aspect ratio in mind (3:2). Likewise, most photo printers and photo labs
print in these traditional sizes. This means in order for your digital prints to fit, they will have to
be cropped slightly.
How can I compensate for differences in aspect ratio?
Luckily, there are easy ways to get around different aspect ratios when you're trying to print your photos.
Add extra space when photographing
The difference between 4:3 and 3:2 isn't huge. When taking pictures, simply keep in mind how much
your photo will be cropped when you print it. When shooting, add some room at the top and bottom
for horizontal photos and on the sides for vertical photos.
Order custom prints from Snapfish
Not only is it the perfect place to share individual pictures or entire albums with friends and
family, you can also order traditional 3:2 prints (which will be slightly cropped) or true digital
4:3 prints of all your photos—preserving every last pixel.
Preview your prints
If printing your digital photos at home, your printing software will display a print preview of
your photo before you print. Here you can see the size of your photo in comparison to your paper
size, and view what portion of your digital photo will be cropped when printed.
If you're interested in printing lab-quality photo prints up to 8.5" x 24" explore the features of the
HP Photosmart D7460.
For brilliant, archival prints worthy of a gallery showing, print with the
HP Photosmart Pro B8850.
With 8-ink printing at sizes up to 13" x 19", you'll see your photos like never before! And check out the
HP desktop photo printer buying guide
for even more product choices and features.
Print panoramic photos
to catch all the action in one expansive scene.
Now that you know more about aspect ratio, make sure you get the best prints possible by using genuine HP
print cartridges and
photo paper. Learn
why they matter.
And printing your photos goes beyond 4" x 6" and 5" x 7" snapshots. Explore different types of paper, including
panoramic
for those extra special scenes.
Get more tips for taking better photos.
Take a free online class
in digital photography! Explore the many features of your digital camera, find tips for cropping and editing your
images, and discover new ideas for sharing your photos in creative ways.
Printable version
