Sometimes a client wants to use an image in print that he’s pulled off the web (never mind the potential copyright infringement for now).
Because the image was pulled from the Internet, chances are the resolution is too low for it to be used anywhere else but the web.
When a graphic designer or printer asks you about the resolution of an image, they will want to know its DPI.
DPI stands for dots per inch. For a more precise technical explanation, click here.
Most web images are 72 DPI.
If you need an image for print — brochure, print ad, vehicle wrap, or poster — you’re going to need a higher resolution image. 300 DPI is fine for most uses.
If you’re taking your own pictures, your camera’s default setting is probably 250DPI. This setting is also good, but to be on the safe side, try to reset your camera to 300DPI.
Can a 72 DPI be converted to 300 DPI? No. At least, not without the image being seriously degraded.
Of course, you can always go the other way from 300 DPI to 72 DPI. Web developers regularly do this so that web pages with images will load faster.
Easy Web Tip #193: When taking your own photos for your website, make sure your camera setting is at 300 DPI.
P.S. To see an amazing historic image with incredible resolution, check out the Cincinnati Panorama of 1848.
