Adding a Couple's Photo to a Companion Headstone

Photos make a companion headstone feel personal. Couples choose between one shared photo and two individual portraits.

One photo or two?

• A shared photo — a wedding photo or a favourite picture together, centred between the names.
• Two portraits — one above each name, ideally from a similar age and style.
• A wedding photo plus a recent one — on the front and back.

Two portraits work best when the photos match in size, angle and lighting.

Etched or ceramic?

Laser etching on black granite gives a timeless black-and-white look and nothing can fall off. Ceramic photos keep colour but are attached plaques. See ceramic vs laser-etched.

When one spouse is living

Many couples choose their shared photo together in advance. If the surviving spouse prefers, their portrait can be added later on site by etching or a ceramic plaque — plan the space now. See wording when a spouse is living.

Choosing photos

Use sharp, well-lit photos where both faces are clear. Scan old prints at high resolution. Artists can combine two photos into one balanced composition. See choosing a photo.

Placement and size

Common layouts for photos on a companion stone:

• Shared photo centred above the family name.
• Two ovals above each first name.
• Photos on the back with a larger etched portrait.

As a guide, oval ceramic photos are often around 3–5 inches tall on uprights; etched portraits can be larger. Keep photos above the name so faces aren't hidden by flowers in the vases.

Key Takeaways

• Choose one shared photo or two matching portraits.
• Etching is permanent; ceramic keeps colour.
• Plan space for a surviving spouse.
• Use sharp, well-lit photos.

Next Step

Plan the layout in the Design Studio.