Headstone Picture Size Guide: How to Choose the Right Size

There is no single standard headstone picture size. Measure the clear, usable space where the picture will sit, leave a visible margin around names, dates, and carving, and then pick the largest size that fits that space comfortably. MemorialPics oval and rectangle portraits are listed from 2.4 x 3.2 inches up to 9.4 x 11.8 inches; check the product page for the sizes available when you order.

Before you measure

If the memorial is already installed, check with the cemetery or monument company first. Every cemetery sets its own rules, and some limit additions, placement, size, material, or installation methods. Ask for approval in writing. The cemetery photo rules guide explains what to ask. If several family members share responsibility for the memorial, agree on the location before anyone places an order.

How to measure the space you can actually use

1. Find a clean, smooth, flat area. For adhesive installation the surface should be dry and non-porous, such as polished granite or smooth bronze.
2. Measure the clear width and height of that area. Do not measure the whole face of the stone unless all of it is truly available.
3. Subtract a margin on every side so the picture does not crowd lettering, emblems, decorative carving, seams, or the stone's edge. There is no universal margin; use a paper template to judge what looks balanced.
4. If you plan to add a frame or cover, compare the outside dimensions of the finished piece, not just the porcelain.
5. Take a straight-on photo of the memorial with a tape measure visible. It helps if you contact us later.

A paper template is surprisingly helpful. Cut paper to the size you are considering, tape it gently in place, and step back. You will quickly see whether the placement feels balanced or squeezed into the last open spot.

Sizes and shapes

These sizes come from MemorialPics product listings as of 2026-10-05. Availability can change, so always confirm the size on the product page before ordering.

Style	Listed sizes (inches)
Oval	2.4 x 3.2, 3.2 x 4, 3.5 x 4.7, 4.3 x 5.9, 5.1 x 7.1, 7.1 x 9.4, 9.4 x 11.8
Rectangle	2.4 x 3.2, 3.2 x 4, 3.5 x 4.7, 4.3 x 5.9, 5.1 x 7.1, 7.1 x 9.4, 9.4 x 11.8
Oval with bronze frame	2.8 x 3.6, 3.7 x 4.5, 4.2 x 5.4, 5.1 x 6.6, 5.9 x 7.8
Oval with bronze cover	3.9 x 6.1
Round	4 x 4, 5.9 x 5.9
Heart	4 x 4, 6 x 6
Square	4 x 4

Choosing a size by memorial type

Upright headstones

Upright stones are seen at roughly eye level, and they often have the most open polished space. Measure the area between the inscription and the stone's top or side edges. Make sure the names and dates stay the visual focus and the portrait does not cover any of them.

Flat and bronze markers

Flat markers are viewed from above and usually have less open space around the lettering. Measure the area that remains clear after the inscription. On bronze, the installation instructions call for a smooth surface. Some cemeteries restrict anything placed on or attached to flat markers, so confirm the rules first.

Niches, urns, and small plaques

Columbarium niche fronts, urns, and small plaques usually need the smallest options. Niche fronts are often controlled by the facility, so ask what size and material are allowed before you measure. If the space is smaller than the sizes listed above, contact MemorialPics before ordering to ask what is currently available.

Pictures for couples

A shared memorial usually takes one of two approaches:

• Two matching portraits. Choose the same shape and size for each person so the stone feels balanced. Measure the space above or beside each name and make sure two pictures plus their margins fit.
• One photo of both people. A rectangle generally keeps two faces and shoulders without trimming either person at the edge. An oval trims more at the sides, which can crowd a second person.

If you will add a second portrait later, decide now where it will go and leave that space clear.

Aspect ratio: why the photo and the size must match

The aspect ratio is the proportion of width to height. Most listed portrait sizes are taller than they are wide. For example, 2.4 x 3.2 and 7.1 x 9.4 are close to 3:4, and 3.2 x 4 and 9.4 x 11.8 are close to 4:5. If your photo is a wide group shot or a horizontal phone picture, part of it will be cropped to fit a tall shape. Before ordering, decide which faces and details must stay, and check the crop carefully in the proof. If you need a horizontal layout, ask before ordering.

Oval or rectangle?

An oval is a classic choice for a head-and-shoulders portrait. It draws attention to the face and trims away background that adds little. A rectangle keeps more of the original photo, including clothing, a uniform, or meaningful background details. Heart, round, and square shapes can be just as appropriate when they suit the photo and the memorial.

Let the photograph guide you too

A larger picture cannot create detail that was not in the original. A clear, well-lit photo with a reasonably large face gives the best result. Upload the original file or a good scan rather than a screenshot or a social-media copy. See how to scan a printed photo, and if the only photo is old or faded, read about restoring an old photo.

Quick check before ordering

• Written cemetery approval for the size, material, and placement.
• Usable width and height measured, not the whole stone.
• A margin left around lettering, emblems, and edges.
• Frame or cover included in the outside dimensions.
• A paper template tried at the proposed spot.
• Photo crop works for the shape's aspect ratio.

Frequently asked questions

What is the most common headstone picture size?

There is no industry standard size. The right size is the one that fits the usable space with a comfortable margin and suits the photo. Use a paper template to compare two or three sizes in place.

How much space should I leave around the picture?

There is no fixed rule. Leave enough margin that the names, dates, and carving stay clear and the portrait does not touch the stone's edge. Your cemetery or monument company may have its own requirements.

Can I use a wide photo for a tall oval?

Yes, but the sides will be cropped. Check that every face you want to keep fits inside the shape, and review the proof before production.

Do I measure the frame or the photo?

Measure whatever will sit on the stone. If you add a bronze frame or cover, use the finished outside dimensions.

Still unsure?

That is completely normal. Take a straight-on photo of the memorial, note the usable measurements, and contact MemorialPics before ordering. For prices, see how much a headstone picture costs. For mounting, see the installation guide.

Sources

• Oval Headstone Pictures and Rectangle Pictures for Headstones, MemorialPics product listings.
• Installation instructions, MemorialPics.