Dimensional Ratio Guide: Understanding Image Proportions for Web Design

Dimensional Ratio Guide: Understanding Image Proportions for Web Design

By Michael Turner

December 27, 2024 at 11:19 AM

Dimensional ratios describe the proportional relationship between an image's width and height. They're expressed as a comparison formula (like 3:2) and determine the shape of your images regardless of their actual size.

Common Dimensional Ratio Examples:

  • Square images: 1:1 ratio (500px × 500px or 1500px × 1500px)
  • Portrait images: 2:3 ratio (500px × 750px or 1500px × 2250px)
  • Landscape images: 3:2 ratio (750px × 500px or 1500px × 1000px)

Two white bowls stacked

Two white bowls stacked

Tips for Image Cropping:

  1. Using Built-in Editor:
  • Select predefined dimensional ratios
  • Use the cropping tool for quick adjustments
  • Maintain consistent ratios across similar content types
  1. Custom Cropping:
  • Crop the shorter side based on the longer side
  • Avoid resizing the longer side to prevent blur
  • Use a dimensional ratio calculator for precise measurements

Two bowls in green and brown ceramic

Two bowls in green and brown ceramic

Special Considerations:

Page Banners:

  • No predefined ratios (stretch to fit browsers)
  • Follow banner image formatting guidelines
  • Adjust banner height in template settings

Product Images:

  • Maintain consistent ratios for uniform appearance
  • Set specific dimensional ratios for store pages
  • Ensure proper cropping for product detail pages

Videos:

  • Standard ratio is 16:9
  • Different ratios may show black bars
  • Background videos auto-crop to fill space

Modern building with wall windows

Modern building with wall windows

Modern blue building with glass windows

Modern blue building with glass windows

Modern glass business building

Modern glass business building

Illuminated skyscraper at night

Illuminated skyscraper at night

Building illuminated at night

Building illuminated at night

Calculating Percentage Ratios:

  • 100% = Square images (1:1)
  • Below 100% = Landscape orientation
  • Above 100% = Portrait orientation
  • Formula: (height ÷ width) × 100

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