I have wanted to do a post on this for quite some time. I can't tell you how many times I have clients order 5x7 prints and "Big" 8x10 prints for their walls. Here's the thing, unless you are literally a foot or two away from it, you will not see your image. My clients pay for a custom photography experience. They love their images and want to show them off but are often afraid of ordering big. Instead, they end up with lots of 5x7 that don't do the image justice in most cases. I have the most beautiful clients and, if I don't say so myself, we create some amazing images together of your families. SHOW THEM OFF!
I want to share an image in my own home. This is not how my wall typically looks, I love my work but don't typically display clients on the walls of my home. For reference, this sofa is actually a small, compact one (a little larger than a love seat, but not standard sofa length). If you ever make your way to my home, I suggest you don't ever sit on in. Molly, our 11 year old beagle has made this her personal perch. It is full of dog hair and horribly uncomfortable because she has squashed the stuffing out of the cushions. But, it will serve the purpose for today.
I have listed the print sizes for reference. As a general rule, desk prints (to be displayed on a table top in a frame) are 8x10 and smaller. That is because it's likely that you will be in close proximity to it. Prints this size can be picked up for closer looks without risking ruining a wall display. Wall prints are prints that are 11x14 or larger. You do not need to be right upon them in order to appreciate the subject matter.
So, next time you question what size print you will need, GO BIG! You won't regret it.