Photography Framing Calculator
Free Photography framing tool for architecture & aesthetic design. Enter values to see solutions, formulas, and educational explanations.
Reviewed by Daniel Agrici, Founder & Lead Developer
Formula
Total Frame = (Image + 2 x Mat Width) + 2 x Frame Width
The total frame dimension is computed by adding twice the mat width to the image dimension (for both sides), then adding twice the frame molding width. Pixel requirements are calculated as image dimension in inches multiplied by the desired DPI (dots per inch).
Worked Examples
Example 1: Standard Portrait Print Framing
Problem:Frame a 16x20 inch portrait photograph with a 3-inch mat and a 1.5-inch frame molding.
Solution:Mat opening: 16 x 20 inches\nOuter mat dimensions: 16 + 2(3) x 20 + 2(3) = 22 x 26 inches\nTotal frame size: 22 + 2(1.5) x 26 + 2(1.5) = 25 x 29 inches\nMat area: (22 x 26) - (16 x 20) = 572 - 320 = 252 sq inches\nFrame perimeter: 2(25 + 29) = 108 inches of molding needed
Result:Total frame dimensions: 25 x 29 inches | Mat area: 252 sq in | Molding: 108 inches
Example 2: Gallery Print with Pixel Requirements
Problem:Prepare a 24x36 inch landscape photo for framing at 300 DPI with a 2.5-inch mat and 2-inch frame.
Solution:Pixel dimensions needed: 24 x 300 = 7,200 px wide, 36 x 300 = 10,800 px tall\nMegapixels needed: 7,200 x 10,800 / 1,000,000 = 77.8 MP\nOuter mat: 24 + 2(2.5) x 36 + 2(2.5) = 29 x 41 inches\nTotal frame: 29 + 2(2) x 41 + 2(2) = 33 x 45 inches\nFrame area: 33 x 45 = 1,485 sq inches
Result:Frame: 33 x 45 inches | Needs 77.8 MP image at 300 DPI | Frame area: 1,485 sq in
Frequently Asked Questions
What aspect ratio should I use for photography prints?
Common photography aspect ratios include 3:2 (standard for DSLR and 35mm film), 4:3 (micro four-thirds and many phone cameras), 1:1 (square format, popular on social media), and 16:9 (panoramic or cinematic). The 3:2 ratio fits standard print sizes like 4x6, 8x12, and 20x30 inches. The 4:3 ratio works for 8x10, 16x20, and 11x14 prints. When choosing a frame, always verify that your image aspect ratio matches the print size to avoid unwanted cropping. If the ratios do not match, you can either crop the image or use a custom-cut mat to compensate for the dimensional difference.
References
Reviewed by Daniel Agrici, Founder & Lead Developer · Editorial policy