Photographic Series
16L
Belonging to the ISO 216 series, the 16L paper size is a unique and versatile format. This international standard, adopted by most countries worldwide, ensures consistency in paper dimensions. The 16L size is part of this global system, offering a distinct dimension that caters to specific printing needs.
The 16L paper size measures 89 x 127 millimeters or approximately 3.5 x 5 inches. This compact format makes it an ideal choice for printing photographs, small brochures, or other materials where space efficiency is paramount.
16L paper dimensions
Specs
| Format | in | mm | cm | pt |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2A0 | 46.81 x 66.22 | 1189 x 1682 | 119 x 168 | 3370 x 4768 |
| A12 | 0.51 x 0.71 | 13 x 18 | 1 x 2 | 37 x 51 |
| 4A0 | 66.22 x 93.62 | 1682 x 2378 | 168 x 238 | 4768 x 6741 |
| A11 | 0.71 x 1.02 | 18 x 26 | 2 x 3 | 51 x 74 |
| A10 | 1.02 x 1.46 | 26 x 37 | 3 x 4 | 74 x 105 |
| A3+ | 12.95 x 19.02 | 329 x 483 | 33 x 48 | 933 x 1369 |
| A1+ | 23.98 x 35.98 | 609 x 914 | 61 x 91 | 1726 x 2591 |
| A0+ | 35.98 x 50.87 | 914 x 1292 | 91 x 129 | 2591 x 3662 |
| A6 | 4.13 x 5.83 | 105 x 148 | 11 x 15 | 298 x 420 |
| A5 | 5.83 x 8.27 | 148 x 210 | 15 x 21 | 420 x 595 |
| A4 | 8.27 x 11.69 | 210 x 297 | 21 x 30 | 595 x 842 |
| A3 | 11.69 x 16.54 | 297 x 420 | 30 x 42 | 842 x 1191 |
| A9 | 1.46 x 2.05 | 37 x 52 | 4 x 5 | 105 x 147 |
| A2 | 16.54 x 23.39 | 420 x 594 | 42 x 59 | 1191 x 1684 |
| A8 | 2.05 x 2.91 | 52 x 74 | 5 x 7 | 147 x 210 |
| A1 | 23.39 x 33.11 | 594 x 841 | 59 x 84 | 1684 x 2384 |
| A7 | 2.91 x 4.13 | 74 x 105 | 7 x 11 | 210 x 298 |
| A0 | 33.11 x 46.81 | 841 x 1189 | 84 x 119 | 2384 x 3370 |
One fascinating aspect of the ISO series is its aspect ratio - the square root of two (√2). This ratio remains constant across all sizes in the series. Thus, when you fold a sheet of any ISO size in half along its longest side, you get two sheets of the next smaller size with identical proportions. In case of a 16L sheet folded in half would yield two smaller sheets while maintaining this unique √2 aspect ratio.
While not as commonly used as A4 or Letter sizes from ANSI series, the versatility and compactness of the 16L make it an intriguing option for specific applications where space-saving and portability are key considerations.
Understanding different paper sizes like the distinctive 16L can help optimize your printing processes and ensure your materials are presented in their best possible format.
Other Formats in the Photographic Series
Interesting facts about 16L
1. The Origin of 16L Paper
16L paper is part of the ISO 216 standard series, which was first introduced in the 1970s. It was developed as an alternative to the traditional North American paper sizes.
2. Size and Dimensions
The dimensions of 16L paper are 184 mm x 260 mm (7.24 in x 10.24 in). It falls between the A5 and A4 sizes, making it slightly larger than a typical notebook but smaller than a standard letter-sized sheet.
3. Common Uses
Due to its unique size, 16L paper is often used for various purposes such as brochures, flyers, booklets, and small posters. Its compact dimensions make it convenient for portable documents.
4. International Availability
The ISO standard ensures that papers like 16L are recognized globally, allowing for easy compatibility across different countries and printing systems.
5. Similarity to Japanese B5 Paper
The dimensions of 16L paper closely resemble those of Japanese B5 paper (182 mm x 257 mm). However, they are not exactly the same size due to slight variations in measurement standards between countries.
6. Limited Printer Support
Sometimes finding printers that support printing on specific non-standard sizes like 16L can be challenging since many printers are optimized for standard ISO sizes like A3, A4, or Letter.
7. Customization Options
If you require a specific quantity or design on your 16L paper, it may be more cost-effective to have it custom printed rather than trying to find pre-cut sheets.
8. Specialty Paper Variations
Just like other paper sizes, 16L is available in various specialty paper types such as glossy, matte, recycled, or textured finishes to suit different printing needs and preferences.
9. Niche Market Demand
While not as widely used as standard sizes, there is still a niche market demand for 16L paper due to its unique dimensions and versatility for certain applications.
10. Historical Evolution of Paper Sizes
The development of standardized paper sizes can be traced back to ancient China when the imperial government established specific dimensions for official documents. This concept later spread to other parts of the world and evolved into the modern ISO 216 series we use today.
