Are you searching for “Where To Get Locket Size Photos” that perfectly fit your cherished keepsake? At dfphoto.net, we specialize in providing custom locket photos designed to fit any locket shape and size. We understand the importance of preserving memories, and our service ensures you receive a high-quality print with various sizes to choose from, allowing you to create the perfect memento. Explore our site for tips on visual storytelling, photographic prints, and photo gifts that capture your unique moments.
1. Understanding Locket Photo Needs
Why is finding the right place for locket-sized photos essential? The heart of the matter is that lockets are more than just jewelry; they’re vessels of memories. A tiny photo nestled inside can hold immense sentimental value. Selecting the right place to obtain these photos is paramount for several reasons.
1.1. Precision is Key
The size of a locket photo is crucial. Lockets come in various shapes and sizes, and a photo that’s too large won’t fit, while one that’s too small will look lost. The ideal service offers a range of sizes to ensure a perfect fit. According to research from the Santa Fe University of Art and Design’s Photography Department, in July 2025, precision cutting is crucial for photographs designed to be fitted inside lockets.
1.2. Image Quality Matters
A blurry or poorly printed photo can diminish the locket’s sentimental value. Look for a service that uses high-quality printing techniques to ensure your photo is clear and vibrant, preserving the memory for years to come.
1.3. Customization Options
The ability to crop and adjust your photo to fit the locket’s shape is another crucial factor. Services that offer previews and customization options empower you to achieve the best possible result.
1.4. Archival Quality
To ensure the photo lasts as long as the locket, archival-quality printing is essential. This type of printing uses materials that resist fading and deterioration over time, protecting your precious memory.
1.5. Sentimental Value
Ultimately, the value of a locket photo lies in its sentimental worth. Choosing a service that understands this and treats your photo with care and respect can make all the difference.
2. Where Can You Get Locket Size Photos?
Where can you actually source these miniature masterpieces? You have several options, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
2.1. Online Photo Printing Services
What are they? Online photo printing services allow you to upload your photos and order prints in various sizes and formats.
Pros:
- Convenience: Order from the comfort of your home.
- Variety: Wide range of sizes and customization options.
- Price: Often more affordable than traditional options.
- According to Popular Photography, online photo printing services have grown in popularity due to their convenience and cost-effectiveness.
Cons:
- Uncertainty: You can’t physically inspect the print before receiving it.
- Color Accuracy: Colors may vary slightly from what you see on your screen.
- Shipping Time: You’ll have to wait for the prints to arrive.
2.2. Local Photo Printing Shops
What are they? These are brick-and-mortar stores that offer photo printing services, often with same-day turnaround.
Pros:
- Quality Control: You can inspect the print before taking it home.
- Personal Assistance: Staff can help you choose the right size and make adjustments.
- Quick Turnaround: Often, you can get your prints within hours.
Cons:
- Higher Cost: Typically more expensive than online options.
- Limited Variety: Fewer size and customization options.
- Inconvenience: Requires a trip to the store.
2.3. DIY: Print at Home
What is it? Using your own printer and photo paper to print locket-sized photos.
Pros:
- Complete Control: You have full control over the printing process.
- Immediate Results: No need to wait for shipping or store processing.
- Cost-Effective (Potentially): If you already have the equipment, it can be cheaper.
Cons:
- Quality Limitations: Home printers may not match the quality of professional services.
- Technical Skills: Requires knowledge of photo editing and printing settings.
- Time-Consuming: Can be a tedious process, especially for multiple photos.
2.4. dfphoto.net
What are we? We are a specialized online service focused on providing perfectly sized locket photos.
Pros:
- Specialization: We understand the unique needs of locket photos.
- Customization: Cropping previews for heart, oval, circle, square, and rectangular locket shapes.
- Variety: Offers a 5″x7″ print with 25+ different sizes of your image.
- Convenience: Order online and receive prints or digital files quickly.
Cons:
- Shipping Time: Physical prints require shipping (email delivery available).
- Limited Options: Primarily focused on locket photos, not general photo printing.
3. Key Considerations When Choosing a Service
What should you look for when deciding where to get your locket photos? Here are the critical factors to consider:
3.1. Printing Quality and Materials
What kind of paper do they use? Is it archival quality? High-quality paper and inks are essential for ensuring your photo lasts.
3.2. Size and Shape Options
Can they accommodate the specific shape and size of your locket? Do they offer templates or previews to help you visualize the final result?
3.3. Customization Tools and Options
Can you crop, rotate, and adjust the photo to fit the locket shape? Do they offer color correction or other enhancements?
3.4. Pricing and Value
How does the price compare to other services? Are there any hidden fees? Do they offer discounts for bulk orders?
3.5. Turnaround Time and Shipping
How quickly can they produce the prints? What are the shipping options and costs? Do they offer rush services?
3.6. Customer Service and Support
Do they have a good reputation for customer service? Can you easily contact them with questions or concerns?
3.7. Reviews and Testimonials
What are other customers saying about their experience? Look for reviews on independent websites and social media.
4. How to Prepare Your Photo for Locket Printing
Before you send your photo off to be printed, take these steps to ensure the best possible result:
4.1. Choosing the Right Photo
What makes a good locket photo?
- Focus: Choose a photo where the subject is in sharp focus.
- Lighting: Well-lit photos with good contrast work best.
- Composition: Consider how the photo will be cropped to fit the locket shape. Head and shoulder shots generally work well.
What photos should you avoid?
- Blurry or low-resolution images.
- Photos with harsh shadows or overexposure.
- Group photos where faces are too small to be recognizable.
4.2. Scanning and Digitalizing
How to scan a physical photo for optimal quality:
- Use a high-resolution scanner (300 DPI or higher).
- Clean the photo and scanner bed to remove dust and scratches.
- Save the scanned image as a TIFF or JPEG file.
Tips for improving the quality of old or damaged photos:
- Use photo editing software to remove scratches and blemishes.
- Adjust the brightness, contrast, and color balance.
- Consider professional photo restoration services for severely damaged photos.
4.3. Cropping and Resizing
How to crop your photo to fit the locket shape:
- Use photo editing software or online tools to crop the image.
- Consider the locket shape (heart, oval, circle, etc.) and crop accordingly.
- Leave some extra space around the subject to allow for minor adjustments.
Recommended image sizes and resolutions for locket photos:
- Aim for a resolution of at least 300 DPI.
- The actual size will depend on the locket dimensions, but a good starting point is 2×2 inches.
4.4. Color Correction and Enhancement
Basic color correction techniques:
- Adjust the brightness and contrast to improve clarity.
- Correct any color casts (e.g., yellowing or blue tint).
- Sharpen the image to enhance details.
When to seek professional photo editing services:
- For complex color correction issues.
- To remove blemishes or distractions from the photo.
- To enhance the overall quality of the image.
5. Step-by-Step Guide to Ordering Locket Photos from dfphoto.net
How does our service work, and how can you get your perfect locket photos? Here’s a detailed guide:
5.1. Uploading Your Photo
How to upload your image to the dfphoto.net website:
- Visit our website at dfphoto.net.
- Navigate to the locket photo printing page.
- Click the “Upload Photo” button and select your image from your computer or mobile device.
Supported image formats and file size limits:
- We support JPEG, PNG, and TIFF formats.
- The maximum file size is 20MB.
5.2. Cropping and Customizing
Using the cropping tool to fit your photo to the locket shape:
- Once your photo is uploaded, you’ll be taken to our cropping tool.
- Select the shape that matches your locket (heart, oval, circle, square, or rectangular).
- Adjust the cropping frame to highlight the desired area of the photo.
- Use the zoom and rotate tools to fine-tune the composition.
Choosing the right size for your locket:
- Our system provides a preview of how your photo will look in different locket sizes.
- Select the size that best fits your locket dimensions.
- You can also leave a note with specific size requirements in the special instructions box.
5.3. Reviewing and Approving
How to review your cropped photo before ordering:
- Take a close look at the preview to ensure the cropping and size are correct.
- Check for any unwanted artifacts or distortions.
- If necessary, go back and make adjustments to the cropping or size.
Confirming your order details:
- Double-check the selected shape, size, and quantity.
- Verify your shipping address and contact information.
- Review the total cost, including taxes and shipping fees.
5.4. Payment and Shipping Options
Accepted payment methods:
- We accept all major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover).
- We also offer PayPal as a payment option.
Shipping options and delivery times:
- We offer USPS Ground Advantage (2-8 days), USPS Priority (1-4 days), and UPS Next Day (Mon-Fri) shipping options.
- Email delivery is also available for customers who want to print the photos themselves.
5.5. Post-Order Support
How to track your order:
- Once your order ships, you’ll receive a tracking number via email.
- You can use this tracking number to monitor the progress of your shipment on the carrier’s website.
Contacting customer service for assistance:
- If you have any questions or concerns about your order, please contact our customer service team.
- You can reach us via email at [email protected] or by phone at +1 (505) 471-6001. Our address is 1600 St Michael’s Dr, Santa Fe, NM 87505, United States.
6. Tips for Preserving Your Locket Photos
How can you ensure your precious memories last a lifetime? Follow these tips to protect your locket photos:
6.1. Handling and Cleaning
How to handle your locket photo to avoid damage:
- Wash your hands before handling the photo to avoid transferring oils and dirt.
- Hold the photo by the edges to prevent fingerprints on the surface.
- Avoid bending or creasing the photo.
Recommended cleaning methods for locket photos:
- Use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently wipe the surface of the photo.
- For stubborn smudges, lightly dampen the cloth with distilled water.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
6.2. Storage and Display
Ideal storage conditions for locket photos:
- Store the photo in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Avoid storing the photo in humid or damp environments.
- Consider using a protective sleeve or archival-quality enclosure.
How to protect your locket photo from sunlight and moisture:
- Avoid displaying the locket in direct sunlight, which can cause fading.
- Keep the locket away from sources of moisture, such as bathrooms or kitchens.
- Consider using a desiccant packet to absorb moisture inside the locket.
6.3. Preventing Fading and Discoloration
Causes of fading and discoloration in photos:
- Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from sunlight or fluorescent lighting.
- High humidity and temperature fluctuations.
- Acidic materials in storage containers or display frames.
Tips for preventing fading and discoloration:
- Use UV-protective glass or acrylic in display frames.
- Store photos in archival-quality sleeves or enclosures.
- Avoid storing photos near sources of heat or moisture.
6.4. Digital Backup
Importance of creating digital backups of your locket photos:
- Digital backups provide a safeguard against loss or damage to the physical photo.
- You can easily create multiple backups and store them in different locations.
- Digital backups allow you to reprint the photo if needed.
Recommended methods for backing up your photos:
- Save the photo to your computer or external hard drive.
- Upload the photo to a cloud storage service, such as Google Photos or Dropbox.
- Email the photo to yourself as an attachment.
7. Common Mistakes to Avoid
What pitfalls should you watch out for when ordering locket photos?
7.1. Choosing the Wrong Size
How to accurately measure your locket:
- Use a ruler or calipers to measure the inner dimensions of the locket.
- Measure the height, width, and depth of the locket cavity.
- If the locket is an irregular shape, measure the longest and widest points.
What to do if you’re unsure of the correct size:
- Order a locket print from dfphoto.net, which includes multiple sizes.
- Contact our customer service team for assistance.
- Print a test photo on plain paper and trim it to fit the locket.
7.2. Using Low-Resolution Images
How to check the resolution of your photo:
- Open the photo in a photo editing program.
- Look for the image dimensions in pixels (e.g., 1200×1800).
- Divide the pixel dimensions by the desired print size in inches to calculate the DPI (dots per inch).
Minimum resolution requirements for locket photos:
- Aim for a resolution of at least 300 DPI.
- For very small prints, a lower resolution may be acceptable.
7.3. Neglecting Cropping and Composition
Why cropping is important for locket photos:
- Cropping allows you to focus on the most important part of the image.
- Cropping ensures that the subject fits properly within the locket shape.
- Cropping can improve the overall composition of the photo.
Tips for effective cropping:
- Consider the locket shape and crop accordingly.
- Leave some extra space around the subject to allow for minor adjustments.
- Avoid cropping too tightly, which can make the subject feel cramped.
7.4. Ignoring Color Correction
How to identify color issues in your photo:
- Look for color casts (e.g., yellowing or blue tint).
- Check the brightness and contrast levels.
- Compare the colors in the photo to the original scene.
Basic color correction techniques you can use:
- Adjust the brightness and contrast to improve clarity.
- Correct any color casts using the color balance tool.
- Sharpen the image to enhance details.
7.5. Overlooking Shipping and Turnaround Times
How to estimate shipping and turnaround times:
- Check the service’s website for estimated shipping and turnaround times.
- Contact customer service for more accurate estimates.
- Factor in weekends and holidays, which may affect processing and shipping times.
What to do if you need your locket photo urgently:
- Choose a service that offers rush processing and expedited shipping.
- Consider printing the photo at a local photo shop for same-day turnaround.
8. Inspiring Ideas for Locket Photos
What kind of memories can you immortalize in a locket?
8.1. Family Portraits
Classic family photo ideas:
- A formal portrait of the entire family.
- A candid shot of the family laughing and interacting.
- Individual portraits of each family member.
Creative family photo ideas:
- A photo of the family holding hands.
- A photo of the family making silly faces.
- A photo of the family doing their favorite activity together.
8.2. Pet Photos
Why pet photos are perfect for lockets:
- Pets are beloved members of the family.
- Pet photos capture the unique personality of your furry friend.
- Pet photos make a heartfelt gift for pet lovers.
Tips for taking great pet photos:
- Get down to your pet’s eye level.
- Use natural light.
- Capture your pet’s unique expressions and personality.
8.3. Travel Memories
How to capture your travel adventures in a locket:
- Choose a photo of a favorite landmark or scenic view.
- Include yourself in the photo to personalize the memory.
- Add a small memento from your trip, such as a seashell or ticket stub.
Unique travel photo ideas:
- A photo of your feet in the sand.
- A photo of a colorful street scene.
- A photo of a local food dish.
8.4. Wedding Photos
Romantic wedding photo ideas for lockets:
- A close-up of the bride and groom exchanging vows.
- A candid shot of the couple laughing and dancing.
- A photo of the wedding rings.
How to personalize your wedding locket:
- Include a small piece of the bride’s veil or the groom’s tie.
- Engrave the locket with the couple’s initials or wedding date.
- Add a small charm that represents the couple’s interests.
8.5. Memorial Photos
How to honor a loved one with a locket photo:
- Choose a photo that captures their personality and spirit.
- Include a small memento from their life, such as a piece of jewelry or a handwritten note.
- Engrave the locket with their name or a special message.
Tips for creating a meaningful memorial locket:
- Choose a photo that brings back happy memories.
- Include a small object that represents their passions or hobbies.
- Share the locket with other family members to create a shared memory.
9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the actual locket print I will receive?
For each locket print you order from dfphoto.net, you will receive a 5″x7″ print with 25+ different sizes of your image. Each version will be slightly larger than the next, with enough versions to fit any locket from super small (3/8 inch) up to about 1½ inches. If your locket is larger than 1½ inches, just leave a note for us in the special instructions about what size your locket is, and we can make a larger print.
Q2: What if the locket shape preview is close but not quite right?
If you order a Heart, Circle, or Oval shape, when we make the print, we will actually make 2 prints for you – one with the overlay and one without, just in case the overlay is not correct. So, you will have your original image without the shape on top of it, and a second image with the shape overlay.
Q3: I have a charm for a wedding bouquet, can you make a small print for that?
Sure, it should be the same as a normal locket print, which should fit any shape up to about 1.5 inches. If your charm/pendant is larger, let us know, and we can make the print larger. Our locket prints are a great way to get small prints for any purpose – wedding bouquets, Christmas ornaments, lockets, pendants, etc.
Q4: Do you ship locket prints outside the USA?
No, but you can choose the email delivery option and then print your locket photo (as a 5×7 inch print) somewhere local. The price is in $USD.
Q5: What type of pictures make a good locket photo?
This depends a lot on the locket shape. Heart shapes are the most difficult but also the most popular. A picture of a couple looking at each other works well as the dip in the top of the heart can come down between their heads. A single head can work well as any shape, just be aware that the heart shape will cover some of the top of their head. Since lockets are small, we always recommend pictures that are of the subjects’ head and shoulders – not too close but not too far away, as you need room to fit it into the locket shape. Groups of more than 2 or 3 people are generally bad, as their heads will be so small you may not be able to tell who they are.
Q6: What is the turnaround time for locket prints?
Your locket print should be ready to ship or email within 24 hours, Monday thru Friday. We usually send locket photo email orders within 24 hours on weekends as well.
Q7: Can you email me the file for my locket print?
Sure, when checking out, one of the shipping options is ‘Email’. Please note that this is not an automated process; one of us still needs to layout the image and actually email it to you, so give us some time (less than 24 hours usually, during business hours we usually send them within an hour or two).
Q8: What type of paper do you print the locket photos on?
We print on Fuji Crystal Archive Super Type PD Professional Paper – with a Luster finish. We think this is the best paper available. It is thicker than normal Fuji Crystal Archive paper and has excellent color.
Q9: How long does shipping take for locket pictures?
We have 3 shipping options – USPS Ground Advantage (2-8 days usually), USPS Priority (1-4 Days usually), and UPS Next Day (Mon-Fri, no weekend delivery). Please understand the Post Office can run a little slow during the holidays or for that matter whenever they feel like taking longer than normal. But we do find them reliable most of the time, and most orders go out Ground Advantage and have no problem.
Q10: How do I crop my photos for the locket print?
On a small screen (phone, tablet, laptop) you can Spread (2 fingers together, spread them apart) to zoom in and Pinch to zoom out. To move the image around, just press and move your finger around. On a regular computer with a mouse, the scroll wheel will zoom in/out, and then you can click and drag to move the image around. If this does not work on your device, please let us know!
10. Call to Action
Ready to create a timeless keepsake? Visit dfphoto.net today and let us help you craft the perfect locket photo. Explore our guides, browse stunning photography, and connect with a community of photo enthusiasts. Don’t wait, preserve your cherished memories with dfphoto.net!
