Get the Goods: Resolution -- All About the Pixels

I wanted to shared this great iStockphoto Tip of the Month with my readers today. I'm always having trouble trying to figure out the correct resolution formula for various photo print sizes. So I was excited to get this information sent to my email:


Required resolution varies depending on use, but in general, for web & online use, you don’t have to worry about the dpi: just look at the number of pixels. For print you'll need a larger-sized file with a higher resolution. Check with your printer, but large presses usually require an image at 300 dpi. If outputting on a large format inkjet printer, the minimum resolution is probably about 100 dpi, but (with diminishing returns), a higher resolution will produce better results. An average home or office inkjet printer can usually produce fine output with 150 dpi, but higher resolutions produce better results. Your best option is to do a few test prints and see where you can perceive the difference.

The two most important measurements you need to be aware of to ensure your image will be big enough for your use are size and resolution. Yes, especially in this case, size matters. Both can be manipulated in Adobe® Photoshop® under Image, then click Image Size.

The magic resolution formula

To find out if your image is large enough for your end use without pixelating the image, divide the number of pixels by the resolution. For example:


This means the printed piece can be a max of 10” before some loss of image quality. If your printer only required 150 dpi, you could print the image as large as 20”.
What size image do I need for web or print?

What size image do I need for web or print?



If you are still confused then read this great article and hopefully it will help.