Understanding DPI for Print
Print resolution is measured in DPI (dots per inch). The standard requirements are:
- 300 DPI — professional print, photo books, packaging, anything viewed up close
- 150 DPI — large format: posters, banners, trade show graphics (viewed from a distance)
- 72–96 DPI — screen display only; too low for any print use
Use the DPI Calculator to calculate your maximum print size. Enter your image pixel dimensions and target DPI to see exactly how large you can print.
The AI Upscaling Workflow for Print
- Start from the original. Use the highest-quality source file — original camera JPEG, converted RAW, or uncompressed TIFF. Never start from a web-scaled version.
- Check current print size. Use the DPI Calculator to see your current maximum print dimensions at 300 DPI.
- Upscale to reach your target. Use the AI Upscaler — choose 2× for moderate enlargements, 4× if the source is small relative to your target print size.
- Re-check DPI. Run the enlarged pixel dimensions through the DPI Calculator again to confirm you've reached 300 DPI at your target print size.
- Export in the right format. For most print shops: TIFF (lossless) is preferred. Use the JPG to TIFF converter. For consumer print services that accept JPG, export at quality 90–95.
Format Recommendations for Print
TIFF — Lossless, no compression artefacts. Use for commercial offset printing, pre-press, and archival work. Convert with the JPG to TIFF converter.
JPG at Q90+ — Acceptable for consumer photo printing services (Snapfish, Shutterfly, local labs). Use the JPG compressor with quality set to 90–95.
PDF — Required by some print-on-demand services. Use the JPG to PDF converter.