The death of a loved one is a difficult time for family and friends. Not only are they dealing with grief and sadness, they will face a number of decisions about the funeral, burial site and grave marker. A headstone is a way to memorialize and pay tribute to the deceased, and modern versions allow for engraved imagery. Here are some tips on choosing the right photo for a headstone. 

How to Choose a Photo for a Headstone

1. Select a Clear, High-Resolution Photo

When headstones are engraved or etched, a sophisticated machine applies the digital image to the granite, porcelain or other slab of material. The outcome is best when the image is clear, crisp, uncropped and of high resolution. The best option is to transfer the photo directly off the phone or camera that took it. A high-quality scan of a print may work in some cases. Unfortunately, many cropped photos, social media images, or older prints are low-resolution and will likely come out poorly on headstones.

2. Avoid Busy Backgrounds

Simple, plain backgrounds are ideal for photos that will be used on headstones. That beautiful mountain vista or stunning town architecture may be visually interesting but will only appear cluttered when engraved on a memorial stone. A busy background also detracts from the deceased person, who should be the main focus. Instead, choose a portrait where the person's face is front and center, without anything else competing for attention. 

3. Capture the Person's Spirit

An important part of choosing the right photo for a headstone is capturing your loved one's spirit and personality. This is a memorial marker, so consider how the person would like to be remembered and viewed for generations. If they enjoyed a long life, they can be represented at a range of ages. Think about whether they would have preferred a photo of themselves as a young adult, a parent, or an active senior. Find an image with a facial expression, hair style, and grooming that looks natural and habitual. 

Choose from the vast selection of headstones at Tri-County Memorials in Waterford, CT. Since 1973, these skilled artisans have lovingly crafted markers to honor the memory of deceased loved ones. They're happy to answer your questions and provide guidance when it comes to size, shape, and engraving. They're even capable of creating remarkable 3D designs. Visit the website to see a gallery of their work, or call (860) 443-8744 for more information.