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3 ways to split one photo over multiple canvases

By Amy Wright | Sep 23, 2024

Some photos deserve prominence in your décor. Just having that photo in the space may not be enough to create that sense of importance, though. Consider splitting one photo over multiple canvases. When done well, this process allows the image to play a bigger role in the room. This process enables that single image you love so much to be made more dramatic, interesting, and attention-grabbing.

Instead of a single, larger image covering more space on the wall or incorporating more than one photo in the room, this method enables you to use your favorite image in a more dramatic manner. That single photo creates a larger presence in the space because it draws the eye in. It's more interesting. That means the eye is more likely to look over it. When you want an image to be a focal point, these strategies work the best.

When you split an image over more than one canvas, each detail comes to life and becomes prominent. Instead of seeing the entire image as one component, the brain slows down and takes in more of the details of this spread-out image. It's quite an impressive way to transform a space with an image you enjoy. Now that you know you want to create a three-paneled image, the question is – how do you do it? There are three methods to split a single photo over more than one canvas. Let's explore each one here.

Triptych Layout

The Triptych layout is one of the most common methods for creating a three-canvas split. It enables you to take a single image and divide it into three panels. In traditional art and painting, this was done as a way to create three images displayed next to each other in a hinged frame or panel system.

With canvas, the process enables the division of a single image into three panels. This can be done horizontally or vertically. The image simply looks as if it has been cut into three panels.

This method offers a lot of benefits to creating drama in a space. It works great for those instances when you want to cover a large space with a single image. The method is fantastic for making one image become the center point of your room. Another way to use this layout is to use a series of images that complement each other or relate to each other in some way. In this style, three canvases tell a story in an impactful, meaningful way.

In either option, the triptych layout is attractive and eye-catching. It can be an excellent choice for those who want to fill a large wall with a series of images that help to show the importance of the content within those images. Use this option for those photos that carry special meaning to you or enhance the space in a certain way to achieve your goals.

photo of three kids spread over three canvas prints

Grid-Like Layout

The grid-like layout is a bit different but can still be an excellent choice for those who want to add more drama and eye-catching images to a space. In this method, a single image is divided into several equal-sized canvases. Then, these canvases can be arranged in a net, grid-like pattern. There's a lot of flexibility with this process, though most people go with a 2 by 2 or a 3 by 3 design.

There are a number of benefits to a grid, such as pattern layout, for this style of image. The first is that it creates a symmetrical design. When placed on a wall, it creates a clean, organized, beautiful layout that is both attractive and eye-catching. This creates a sense of order within the room.

This three-panel grid layout for canvas offers a bit more of a modern style. It is elevated and seems more complicated in its design. You'll also find it causes the eye to slow down even more, taking the image in more carefully and slowly. With this look, you'll create a stunning visual that can span over any space well.

Panoramic Layout

A third option is a panoramic layout, which is fantastic for landscaped images. This method creates a bright and bold image on the canvas. Often done with a set of horizontal canvas panels, there's no real limit to the type of image you could place on it, but they tend to do best with panoramic shots of nature or spaces. It's possible to be creative with this, incorporating a wide range of images.

Using the panoramic layout is an excellent way of stretching a canvas across a long wall. When viewing this image, the eye, again, slows down, but it's large and bold enough to allow you to absorb what is in the content more fully. Panoramic images are not limited in terms of the way they can define and add beauty to a space. Stretching across the wall creates a dramatic effect.

Imagine an image of the ocean or beach in this grid. It is spread out as you are standing in one location on the sandy beach, turning your head to see one side of the waterfront to the other. It feels more centered and as if you are immersed in the scene. This can be an excellent choice for walls that are longer where someone will come into the image straight on, standing directly in front of it.

Choosing the Right Image

One of the most important parts of making a three-panel canvas image look great is choosing the right image. Not every image is easy to divide in an effective and meaningful way. You certainly don't want to split a person's body or head into two images, for example.

One tip to consider is what happens if you just have one of the canvas prints. It should look like an image and be possible to stand on its own. This is not always going to tell the whole story, but each image is its own element.

There are some additional tips to keep in mind when you select an image for a three-panel system like this:

When selecting an image, it is always a good idea to consider why it should be in that space. That is, why should this image take on such an important role in your space? Do you love the look and feel? Does it share something meaningful and special to you? Choosing an image that you enjoy is critical. Otherwise, the feel and dramatic appeal of the three-panel canvas print are less impressive overall. Take some time to compare several images to determine which may best fit your objectives for that specific space.

a beautiful photo spread across three canvas prints

Transform a Space with a Three Panel Canvas Image You Love

You certainly have a lot of options to consider when choosing a photo for a wall, especially in an area that will play an important role in the overall interior design of the environment. The three-panel canvas format is an excellent one when you want a big and bold image, or you want to make a statement with color, a beautiful landscape, or a beautiful memory. You can use this method with various types of content, from important wedding photos to an image that captures a beautiful landscape.

The good news is that you can try out a variety of different options and find the look that you love. Using Canvaspop's easy tools, you can modify the look and layout to fit your needs. These tools can help you see what several images may look like, comparing each of these three format options as well. Experiment with your own photos to try out a few different looks. Chances are good you'll love the results and the options to choose from for your project.

Ready to transform your favorite photo into a multi-panel masterpiece? Get started with Canvaspop today!

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