In the evolving world of fine art photography, format matters. From square to panoramic, the aspect ratio you choose becomes part of the story. And lately, a curious cinematic crop is finding its way into galleries and print collections: the 65:24 aspect ratio.
It's not just a trend—it’s becoming a statement.
🎥 Where It Comes From
The 65:24 ratio stems from the ultra-wide cinematic world, most notably formats like Ultra Panavision 70 and IMAX 70mm. Films like Ben-Hur (1959) and The Hateful Eight (2015) used this expansive, immersive view to pull audiences into the scene.
Now, photographers are borrowing this storytelling tool for stills—especially in architectural, urban, and landscape work.
📸 Why It Works for Fine Art Photography
There’s something undeniably elegant about the 65:24 frame. It offers:
A true panoramic experience without feeling gimmicky
Negative space that creates calm and minimalism—perfect for interior display
A cinematic narrative feel—viewers feel like they’re peering into a scene rather than just viewing a photo
It also pushes photographers to be deliberate with composition—foreground, middle ground, and background must all work in harmony.
🏙️ A Natural Fit for Melbourne
Here in Melbourne, with its structured laneways, industrial coastlines, and striking geometry, the 65:24 format sings. I’ve started using it in my own Ultra-Minimal Melbourne series to highlight:
Symmetry in brutalist architecture
Layers of sky and sea along the bay
Empty space in a busy city
The result? Images that feel quiet but powerful, wide but focused.
🖨️ The Print Collector’s Perspective
Collectors love 65:24 for several reasons:
It’s uncommon—making it stand out in a gallery setting
The long, lean dimensions sit beautifully above couches, beds, or office desks
Framed prints in this ratio look contemporary and refined
We’ve seen growing interest from clients looking for bespoke pieces that feel cinematic yet clean—this format delivers exactly that.
🔧 How to Shoot It (Even Without a Panoramic Camera)
You don’t need a specialty panoramic camera to experiment. Try:
Cropping your medium format or full-frame shots with the 65:24 ratio in mind during composition
Shooting stitched panoramas handheld or on a tripod
Using tilt-shift lenses for architectural precision
The key is to see horizontally. Think film stills. Think wide canvas. Think bold simplicity.
✨ Final Thought
In a time when the photography world is either rushing to AI or returning to film, the 65:24 aspect ratio offers a middle path: something new, something old, and something strikingly artistic.
If you’re visiting the gallery soon, ask to see my recent 65:24 work—it’s a format that’s capturing more than just scenes; it’s capturing attention.