Updated on
Choosing photos for an obituary can be an emotional task, but it’s also a meaningful way to honor someone’s life. A well-chosen image can say something the written words can’t. Here’s how to approach it.
Start with a Clear, Recognizable Image
Pick a sharp, well-lit photo where your loved one is easily recognizable — avoid anything blurry, grainy or low-resolution
A solo portrait usually works best. Group photos can make it hard for readers to identify who the obituary is about
Look for a clean, uncluttered background so the focus stays on your loved one’s face
Weigh Recent Photos Against Older Ones
A recent photo is the most common choice, since it reflects how friends and family knew them in their later years
An older photo, from their youth or a formative period like military service, can be just as fitting if it captures who they really were
There’s no single right answer here—choose whichever image best represents how your loved one wanted to be remembered
Build Out a Fuller Picture
Consider including a few additional photos spanning different life stages—childhood, young adulthood, midlife—to help tell their story visually
Candid shots that capture personality, a laugh, a favorite hobby, time with family or pets, often resonate more than posed portraits
If including photos with others, make sure your loved one stands out clearly rather than getting lost in a crowd
Check Image Quality Before Submitting
Higher-resolution images hold up better in print and online. As a general guideline, aim for something in the range of 600 pixels or more on the shortest side, though exact requirements can vary by publication, so it’s worth checking with wherever the obituary will run
Landscape orientation typically displays better online than portrait
Printed photos can be scanned at home or through a print shop; older slides may need a specialized digitization service, which can usually return high-resolution digital copies
Gather Photos as a Group Effort
Reach out to family and close friends for a range of photos spanning different times in your loved one’s life
Even photos that don’t make the final cut can be repurposed for a slideshow, video tribute or memorial display
Common questions
- How many photos should go in an obituary?
- There’s no fixed number. One strong portrait is often enough, though many families include a small handful spanning different life stages.
- What size photo works best for an obituary?
- Higher-resolution images hold up better in print and online. Check with the publication or platform for their specific size requirements, since these vary.
- Should I use a recent photo or an older one?
- Either can work. A recent photo reflects how people knew them lately, while an older photo, from their youth or a meaningful period, can better capture who they were. Choose whichever feels most true to them.
- Can I scan an old printed photo for an obituary?
- Yes. Home scanners work fine for many photos, and print shops offer scanning services for higher-quality results. Slides usually need a specialized digitization service.
- What if I only have group photos?
- Group photos work as a supplement, but try to choose at least one photo where your loved one is clearly the focus.