Adding a Portrait or Photo to a Headstone: What to Know
A photo on a headstone does more than show a face — it tells part of the story. For many families, including a portrait creates a lasting connection across generations. It adds warmth, identity, and memory to the stone.
At McCall Monument, we offer several options for adding photos or portraits to granite headstones, benches, and markers. Here’s what to consider if you’re thinking about including one.
Types of Photos Used in Memorials
Families often choose to include:
• A formal portrait
• A wedding photo
• A favorite candid image
• A service or uniform photo (military, farming, or faith-based)
Some also add images of meaningful items — a tractor, a guitar, or a family pet — that help reflect a person’s life.
The key is to choose a photo that feels true and represents the memory you want to preserve.
How Photos Are Added to Granite
There are two main ways to include photos on a headstone.
Ceramic Photo Plaques
• Made from porcelain and fused with the image
• Set directly into the stone surface
• Fade-resistant and durable in Iowa weather
• Available in color or black and white
• Can be oval, round, or custom shapes
Laser Etched Portraits
• Engraved directly into dark granite (usually black)
• Require a high-resolution photo
• Create a softer, more artistic effect
• Work best with close-up portraits or studio images
Each option has different visual and price points. We can help guide you based on stone color, design goals, and the image you want to use.
Consider Photo Placement in the Design
Photos are commonly placed:
• Centered above or below the name
• On one side of the stone for a balanced layout
• On both sides of a companion monument, with one photo for each person
• In a recessed space on the back for families who prefer a cleaner front view
We will help you plan the full layout so that text, artwork, and photos work together in a respectful and natural way.
Photo Quality and Preparation Tips
The better the photo, the better the final result. If you are thinking about adding one:
• Choose a photo that is clear, high-resolution, and well-lit
• Avoid shadows, glare, or grainy scans
• Let us know if you only have a printed copy — we can help with digitizing and editing
For laser etching, black-and-white images or those with strong contrast work best. For ceramic photos, color is welcome.
Will the Photo Last Over Time?
Yes. When installed properly and cared for, both ceramic and etched photos are designed to last for decades. We use materials that stand up to Iowa’s freeze-thaw cycles, UV exposure, and weather shifts.
Placement, finish, and mounting quality all matter, which is why it’s important to work with a trusted provider.
Is a Photo Right for Your Memorial?
If you are unsure, we are happy to show examples and walk through your options. Some families decide to include a photo from the start. Others return later to add one when they feel ready.
📍 Contact McCall Monument to schedule a consultation. We will help you create a headstone that feels complete — with or without a photo.
A photo is more than a face.
It is a way to keep presence, warmth, and memory alive — gently etched into stone for all who come to visit.
Have Questions or Ready to Begin?
We're here to help you honor your loved one with care and dignity. Reach out to our compassionate team for guidance or to schedule a consultation.
Contact McCall Monument