Output · 7 min read
Photo strip sizes and aspect ratios without the confusing math
A print size and a crop ratio describe different things. A print size tells you the physical dimensions of paper; an aspect ratio tells you the shape relationship between width and height. Keeping those ideas separate makes it much easier to prepare a digital strip for sharing or printing.
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2x6 and 4x6 describe physical print formats
A 2x6-inch strip is a common classic photobooth print shape: narrow and tall. A 4x6-inch print is the familiar full photo size used by many photo labs, and it can hold one larger composition or be prepared so two narrow strips share one sheet before cutting.
Digital files do not become physically 2x6 or 4x6 until you choose a print size and printer/lab settings.
02
1:1, 4:3, and 3:4 describe shape
1:1 is square. 4:3 is wider than it is tall. 3:4 is taller than it is wide. In PicToFu, the composition ratio changes the shape of the photo cells, which changes how much of each source image fits inside Final crop.
03
Why ratio changes can require a second crop check
A face that fits comfortably in 3:4 may sit closer to an edge in 1:1 or 4:3. After changing ratio, revisit photos with people near the outer edges and make a small position or zoom correction if needed.
04
Digital sharing does not require a print-standard size
If the strip will only be sent in a message or posted online, focus on whether the composition looks good at phone-screen size. You do not need to force every digital result into a physical print convention.
05
For printing, preserve the PNG and avoid screenshots
Use the generated PicToFu PNG as your source file. A screenshot can add browser chrome, scaling artifacts, or an accidental crop that makes later print preparation harder.
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Quick checklist
- Treat print size and aspect ratio as separate decisions.
- Use 1:1 for square cells, 4:3 for wider cells, and 3:4 for taller cells.
- Recheck edge faces after changing ratio.
- Keep the original generated PNG for later printing.
- Choose physical print dimensions only when you are actually preparing to print.
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Quick answers
Is 2x6 the same thing as a 3:4 crop?
No. 2x6 is a physical print dimension, while 3:4 is an aspect ratio for width and height.
Which ratio is best for portraits?
There is no universal best choice. 3:4 often gives portraits more vertical room, while 1:1 can work well for close face crops or grids.
Does changing ratio change the original uploaded photo?
No. It changes the composition/crop view used for the output, not the source file on your device.
Make the strip, then improve the next one.
The point of a guide is not to turn a photobooth into homework. Use the parts that solve your current problem and keep the session moving.
Try the ratio controls