Understanding image resolution

Not sure what DPI really means? Curious how many pixels you need to print a sharp 8×10? These guides explain the key concepts behind image resolution, without the jargon.

Whether you're preparing photos for online sharing or professional printing, understanding resolution helps you make better choices — and avoid common mistakes.

Articles in the series:

A practical series on image resolution, DPI, PPI, and print quality — including how to prepare images for web and print, common myths, and how to avoid blurry results.
A practical guide to the best image resolution for printing — including recommended pixel dimensions, DPI guidelines, and how to balance quality with file size.
A myth-busting guide to DPI and image resolution. Learn what DPI actually affects, when it matters, and why changing it won’t improve a blurry or low-res image.
Understand the key differences between DPI (dots per inch) and PPI (pixels per inch), and learn how they relate to image resolution, printing, and display quality.
A beginner-friendly guide to choosing the right resolution for web images — including best practices for pixel dimensions, DPI, compression, and loading speed.
A deep dive into the meaning and importance of 300 DPI for photo printing — including when it’s critical, when it’s optional, and how to prepare your images.
A clear explanation of DPI (dots per inch) and how it relates to photo quality, resolution, and print size. Learn when DPI actually matters and when it’s irrelevant.