Millimeterformat

Millimeterformat is a term used to describe image, print, or media formats whose sizes are specified in millimeters. The designation emphasizes physical dimensions rather than pixel counts or inch-based measurements. The concept is more common in European contexts and in fields where accurate physical sizing matters, such as printing, framing, archival work, and microform, rather than in purely digital workflows.

In photography and printing, millimeterformat is relevant for prints, mounts, and albums where exact external dimensions are required. It also appears in archival and document reproduction, where pages or film frames are produced or stored to specific millimeter dimensions. For official identification and passport photos, many authorities specify a standard millimeter size, such as 35 by 45 millimeters, with other jurisdictions using formats like 30 by 40 millimeters or 40 by 60 millimeters.

In film, microfilm, and related media, frame sizes are defined in millimeters to ensure compatibility with equipment such as projectors, scanners, and archival drawers. When preparing images for print, designers work in millimeters to guarantee consistent physical output, regardless of the display device or print resolution.

There is no universal standard for millimeterformat, and the exact dimensions depend on the intended use, issuer requirements, or archival conventions. This contrasts with standardized inch-based formats or purely digital pixel formats, where widely adopted conventions are more common. Understanding millimeterformat helps ensure precise sizing, proper framing, and consistent reproduction across physical media.

See also: photography format, print size, aspect ratio, archival media, document scanning.