Photographic Series
4L
Belonging to the ISO series, 4L paper size is a unique and often overlooked dimension in the world of print. This specific size, measuring 89 x 119 mm, is part of the Japanese Industrial Standards (JIS), which are equivalent to the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) sizes.
The 4L paper size is primarily used in Japan and other East Asian countries. It's a popular choice for printing photos due to its compact dimensions that perfectly frame standard photographic compositions. The size also lends itself well to creating small promotional materials such as flyers or postcards.
4L 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 |
Despite its smaller stature compared to A-series or B-series paper sizes, the 4L holds its own with an aspect ratio that maintains its proportions when scaled up or down. This means that designs created on a 4L canvas can be easily resized without distortion - a feature highly valued by graphic designers and print professionals alike.
Interestingly, while not as widely recognized as A4 or Letter sizes in Western countries, the adoption of 4L paper size has been growing steadily due to globalization and increased cross-cultural exchange. As businesses continue to expand their reach across borders, understanding and utilizing various international standards like the JIS becomes crucial.
While it may not be your go-to choice at first glance, incorporating the use of 4L paper into your repertoire can offer unique advantages in both design flexibility and global compatibility. Its distinct dimensions provide an opportunity for creative expression while adhering to internationally recognized standards.
Other Formats in the Photographic Series
Interesting facts about 4L
1. The Origin of 4L Paper
4L paper is a popular paper size in Japan, measuring approximately 210 x 297 millimeters. It is part of the JIS (Japanese Industrial Standards) series, which was established in 1978. The JIS series aimed to standardize paper sizes in Japan and improve compatibility between different printing devices.
2. Equivalent to European A3 Size
The dimensions of 4L paper are equivalent to the European A3 size, which measures approximately 297 x 420 millimeters. This means that both sizes have the same aspect ratio and can be used interchangeably in certain situations.
3. Commonly Used for Brochures and Posters
Due to its larger size compared to standard letter or A4 paper, 4L paper is often used for creating brochures, flyers, posters, and other promotional materials that require more space for content or visuals.
4. Not Part of ISO Standard Sizes
The JIS series, including the 4L size, is specific to Japan and not part of the ISO (International Organization for Standardization) standard sizes commonly used in many other countries around the world.
5. Similarity with US Legal Size
The dimensions of 8.5 x 14 inches (approximately 216 x 356 millimeters) for US Legal size are quite close to those of a trimmed-down version of a sheet from the JIS B-series sizes like the Japanese B5 or B6 format.
6. Historical Connection with Traditional Japanese Papermaking
The dimensions of traditional Japanese washi papers were historically based on ratios derived from geometric principles such as root 2. These ratios influenced the development of the JIS series, including 4L paper.
7. Compatibility Challenges with International Printing
When printing documents designed for 4L paper outside of Japan, it may be necessary to adjust the layout or resize the content to fit standard international paper sizes like A3 or letter size.
8. Popular Choice for Manga Artists
Manga artists in Japan often prefer using 4L paper for their illustrations due to its larger canvas size, allowing them to create more detailed and expressive artwork.
9. Availability in Pre-Cut Sheets and Reams
Like other standard paper sizes, 4L paper is available in both pre-cut sheets and reams, making it convenient for various printing needs and compatible with different types of printers.
10. Versatile Usage Beyond Printing
Besides its use in printing and graphic design, 4L paper can also be utilized for writing letters, sketching, calligraphy practice, or any other creative purposes that benefit from a slightly larger format than regular A4 or letter-sized papers.
