Can You Add a Picture to an Existing Headstone?

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MemorialPics oval memorial picture for headstones, product example
MemorialPics oval headstone picture, shown as a product example. Confirm placement with your cemetery before adding a picture. View Oval Headstone Pictures

Often, yes. A ceramic picture can usually be added to a headstone that is already in place, as long as the cemetery approves it and the memorial has a suitable spot. Get written approval first, then check for a clean, smooth, dry, non-porous area such as polished granite or smooth bronze, measure it, and order a size that fits. You can install the picture yourself with the included adhesive by following the instructions, or have a monument company set it into the stone. Some cemeteries do not allow attachments at all, so the approval step comes before anything else.

Step 1: Get permission in writing

Each cemetery sets its own rules about additions to memorials, who may install them, and what approval is needed. Ask the cemetery office:

  • Are ceramic or porcelain pictures allowed on this memorial?
  • Are there limits on size, shape, material, frames, or placement?
  • May the family install it, or must a monument company or cemetery staff do it?
  • Is there an application or fee?
  • Do we need permission from the plot owner or other family members?

One example of a written policy: the VA National Cemetery Administration's Directive 3425 prohibits objects attached to markers in the national cemeteries it administers. That policy applies to those cemeteries, not to every cemetery. Whatever kind of cemetery it is, ask that cemetery directly. The cemetery rules guide covers what to ask in more detail.

Step 2: Check the surface

The MemorialPics installation instructions are written for polished stone or smooth bronze that is clean, dry, and non-porous. Look closely at the area where you would like the picture:

  • Polished, flat granite or smooth bronze: the surface the instructions are written for.
  • Rough, rock-pitched, sandblasted, or textured stone: not the surface the adhesive instructions describe. Talk with a monument company before ordering.
  • Curved, cracked, or crumbling areas: ask a monument professional to look at the memorial.
  • Areas with lettering, emblems, or carving: do not cover them. Leave a margin around them.

Step 3: Measure the space

Measure the clear width and height of the approved area, leave a margin on every side, and compare that with the outside dimensions of the size you are considering, including any frame. A paper template taped gently in place shows quickly whether a size looks balanced. The measuring worksheet walks through each step, and the size guide lists current sizes.

Step 4: Choose the photo

Pick the clearest original photo you can find, with a large, well-lit face. If your only copy is old or faded, read about restoring an old photo. If it is a print, see how to scan it. More guidance is in choosing the best photo for a headstone picture.

Step 5: Decide who will install it

Option What it involves Good to know
Install it yourself Clean the surface, mark the position, apply the included adhesive tape, press firmly, and seal the edge with silicone caulk. Only if the cemetery allows family installation. Install when outside and surface temperatures are at least 60°F.
Monument company A monument company may install the picture by cutting a recess into the stone so the picture sits inside it. Ask for a written quote. The cemetery may require a specific installer.

Step 6: Install it carefully

If you are installing it yourself, follow the full installation guide, which includes a video. In short:

  1. Clean the mounting surface with a 50/50 mix of rubbing alcohol and water and let it dry completely.
  2. Place the picture and mark its position lightly.
  3. Apply the tape to the back of the picture, pressing as you go.
  4. Remove the outer film, position the picture between your marks, and press firmly for about two minutes.
  5. Seal the gap around the edge with a high-quality silicone caulk to help keep moisture away from the adhesive.

Choose a dry day when the stone is at least 60°F; warmer is better. 3M's surface-preparation guidance for its VHB tapes notes that moisture can weaken tape bonds on stone and ceramic, so a dry surface and a sealed edge matter. No adhesive can be promised to hold in every condition.

After it is installed

Look at the picture on visits. If an edge lifts, the caulk cracks, or the picture is damaged, contact MemorialPics with your order details before trying a fix. Weather and care tips are in are headstone pictures weatherproof?

Frequently asked questions

Do I need the cemetery's permission to add a picture to a headstone?

Assume you do. Many cemeteries regulate additions to memorials, and some do not allow attachments. Written approval protects you if questions come up later.

Can I put a picture on the headstone myself?

Often, if the cemetery allows family installation and the spot is clean, smooth, dry, non-porous polished stone or smooth bronze. The adhesive is included, and the installation guide shows each step.

Can a picture go on a rough or unpolished part of the stone?

The adhesive instructions are written for polished stone or smooth bronze. For rough, textured, or curved areas, talk with a monument company before ordering.

Can I add a picture to a veteran's headstone?

In national cemeteries administered by the VA National Cemetery Administration, Directive 3425 prohibits objects attached to markers. For other cemeteries, ask that cemetery directly and get its answer in writing.

Sources

Store details come from MemorialPics pages and may change. Always confirm the rules with your cemetery.