How to Create a Photo Mosaic

A photo mosaic of a young woman, created using Picture Mosaics software

The easiest way to create a photo mosaic is by using online software. All you need is a vision for your design and a collection of images. The software will quickly and effortlessly generate a custom photo mosaic, combining your chosen main image with your image library. Below we will review this easy and straightforward process.

What is a Photo Mosaic? And What Makes It a "True" Mosaic?

A photo mosaic is a picture that's made up of many smaller images typically arranged in a grid pattern. When viewed from a distance, these smaller images combine to create a larger, cohesive image. When viewed up close, you can see all the individual images. The key to a true mosaic is how the shapes and colors of the smaller images naturally form the shapes and colors of the final, larger image. This unique effect makes photo mosaics a powerful and personal way to create something visually stunning.

What Do You Need to Create a Photo Mosaic?

Preparing to create a photo mosaic with printed photos and supplies on a table

To create a photo mosaic, you need two key elements:

  1. The main image (source image) you want to create — some examples include a portrait of someone in your family, a pet, wedding photo, vacation photo, and so on.
  2. A collection of images that will form the individual cells or tiles of the mosaic. Ideally these images should contain various shapes and colors to create the best mosaic.

What Makes a Good Main Image?

Simplicity is your friend here! The best main images are those with one or two focal points and have a variety of colors. Color variety ensures that the placement of cells will blend together seamlessly.

  1. Examples of Good Main Images: Close up faces/portraits, most landscapes, large objects, most simple logos, close up animals, large text, simple buildings, simple silhouettes
  2. Examples of Bad Main Images: Overly complex or busy images, small faces/groups, monochromatic, dark/low contrast, small/thin text, complex logos, distant objects, small subject, collages

Here are some examples of each.

How Many Cells Do You Need, and What Orientation Is Best?

More is always better! Photo mosaics can use hundreds, thousands, or even millions of photos that are then placed in a grid to create a vibrant, detailed result. The larger the variety of images, the better the final mosaic will be, as each image adds a unique element to the overall design.

When it comes to the orientation of these images, some software, like The Online Mosaic Tool, will automatically determine the best orientation for your cells. For example, if you have more horizontal images than vertical ones, the tool will arrange your cells horizontally. If you do have a mix of orientations, square will probably be the best option.

When selecting images, avoid using images that look very similar to each other, otherwise they're likely to end up right next to each other in the mosaic.

How to source and collect all of your cells?

In many cases, you may have hundreds or thousands of photos stored in various places and over various devices. When it comes to collecting the photos to include in your mosaic, they can be sourced and collected from:

Where you get these images all depends on the overall vibe, theme or direction of the photo mosaic you are creating. Choosing the right software or online tool to make the gathering process easy is important, The Online Mosaic Tool allows for multiple collection options with a single button press to easily load your cell images.

How Do You Select the Size and Orientation for Your Photo Mosaic?

A 16 by 9 foot photo mosaic mural of a human eye displayed in an art gallery, composed of varying-sized images.

The size and orientation of your mosaic are entirely up to you and your personal preferences. However, if you plan to frame your final mosaic, it's a good idea to choose a size that fits a standard frame or frame you already have.

If you're unsure, or want to go with a custom size mosaic, software like The Online Mosaic Tool will allow you to adjust the size to your liking — whether you're going for something small print or large scale mural. The software will also adjust the orientation based on the image you upload, so you don't have to worry about technical details!

Now You're Ready to Create Your Photo Mosaic!

A photo mosaic in progress, featuring a grid of images, with several squares lifted above the grid to illustrate mosaic assembly by software.

Once you're happy with your image collection and main image, it's time to add your images to the software or online tool and watch the magic.

The Online Mosaic Tool is a great specialized photo mosaic creation software and tool. Simply follow the steps in the tool until you get to the 'Explore' step. There are even links to a tutorial video on each step that explain the various things you can do on each step.

From the final step, 'Explore', you are able to purchase your completed mosaic as a digital file or premium print. The tool also allows you to embed your mosaic to a website and create a fully interactive online mosaic. You can learn more about our engaging Online Interactive Mosaics here!

Printing and Displaying: Showcase Your Mosaic

A man hanging a finished, framed photo mosaic of the Mona Lisa on a wall.

Choosing the right material to print your photo mosaic can have a big impact on how it looks and feels. The Online Mosaic Tool provides a variety of great options to bring your creation to life. For a timeless, artistic vibe, canvas is an excellent choice, perfect for a gallery-style display. If you prefer a smooth, glare-free finish that highlights details, matte paper is a simple and elegant option. Want vibrant colors with a subtle shine? Photo luster paper gives your mosaic a professional, polished look. For those who want flexibility, adhesive vinyl is ideal for wall displays, sticking directly to surfaces without needing a frame.

Looking for something different? The Online Mosaic Tool also lets you purchase a high-resolution digital file, formatted at an impressive 400 pixels per inch. This ensures incredible detail and clarity, allowing you to print your mosaic with a third party on unique materials. Choose bold and modern aluminum or go sleek and stylish with acrylic. Each material offers its own way to make your photo mosaic uniquely yours, fitting perfectly into your space and personal style.