Digital Image Tips:
Understanding image resolution is the key to good images. Here are a few rules to help you get the best image quality you can.
1. Digital images are made up of pixels
Think of image resolution as the density of pixels in your image. The more dense it is, the better quality image you will have at larger sizes. The less dense it is, the poorer the image will look at larger sizes.
2. Resolution is often expressed as pixels per inch (PPI)
These numbers look like this; 640x480, or 1024x768, and they refer to how many pixels are recorded when you take a picture. The greater these numbers, the higher the resolution, or the higher the quality of the image. Most digital cameras allow you to change your resolution setting.
3. Resolution makes a difference (This should be done in your digital camera settings, unless you are skilled at resizing in Adobe Photoshop or another image program)
At extremely low resolution, pixels can actually be seen in digital images, creating poor quality output. The higher the resolution, the smoother, better quality image you will have on your prints or merchandise.
Here's a simple guide to understanding uses for different resolutions:
384x256 - low, good for viewing on screen only 72 dpi
640x480 - medium, good for 4x6 prints and smaller web - great for MLS & Web Pages 72 dpi
768x512 - medium, good for 4x6 prints and smaller web 72 dpi
1024x1536 - high, good for print sizes up to brochure quality in 200 dpi
2048x1536+ - high, good for print sizes up to 8x10 and magazine quality in 300 dpi
Scanner Users
If you use a scanner, use the PPI recommendations below to help you scan for the correct resolution. If you are scanning just to upload and share online, you can scan the image under 100 PPI. If you are scanning an image so you can order prints and gifts, make sure to scan it at 300 PPI or higher.
-For sharing/viewing online (displayed on a monitor) - 72 PPI
-To print on a black & white laser printer - 100 PPI
-To print on most color ink jet printers - 200 PPI
-To enlarge or merchandise - 300 PPI
Once you have pictures on your computer or online, you can print them at home on your printer. Make sure to spend a little time with your computer and printer so that you get the best results.
Things to think about:
File Preparation & Resolution
Understanding image resolution is imperative for smooth, high-quality images. Make sure you know your camera and have it set to the highest resolution offered. Learn more about resolution.
Types of Paper
Use photo paper or premium glossy paper to ensure the best colors and quality. Your printer's manual may recommend the best paper type to use for printing pictures.
Printer Options
Make sure you select Best or Highest quality from your printer's settings. Also check the printer manual for other settings that will affect printing quality. To find out the settings for your print resolution, click FILE > PRINT > Click the PROPERTIES button, and make sure it's set to BEST.
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Thanks, Jane.
Your post came at a great time for me since I'm looking through my photo archives trying to find one to fit my graphic artist's specs. She says she needs 300 dpi, but no matter how much I search I only seem to find 72 dpi listed on the photo (in properties, right?). The resolutions are all over the place -- from the highest to the lowest you've stated. I guess I'll use one of the highest resolution pics and print it out, then I'll give her that to use for the new project.
Thanks again for the clarification.