Dont take this the wrong way but I was also a bit surprised when I saw the picture of the shape. However, I then realized the front wall is a couple feet higher than the back walls, so the picture really gives a bit of an illusion as to the true size. When size is an issue, going deeper is always a good way to get more gallons. I would even consider digging out some of the steps. I redug my pond after its first year, so remove some of the steps, or just make the steps deeper. More water is better for everyone!