Resolution refers to the number of pixels in your image — width × height (like 4000×3000). DPI (dots per inch) is used when printing, and determines how tightly those pixels are packed on the page.
Online, resolution matters most. In print, DPI helps you know how large you can print without losing quality.
Key Guidelines
- Web use: Resolution matters, DPI doesn’t
- Print use: 300 DPI is considered standard for high-quality prints
- Larger prints need more pixels (not necessarily higher DPI)
Examples
- A 3000×2000 image at 300 DPI prints at 10×6.7 inches
- That same image at 72 DPI is fine for screens, but too blurry for print
How to Check and Change DPI
- StorePhotos: Shows resolution info; export presets coming soon
- Preview (Mac) and Photoshop: Allow DPI changes
- Free tools like IrfanView or GIMP offer DPI adjustment
Tips
- Don’t upscale images just to hit a higher DPI — it won’t add real detail
- Use DPI only for print planning — not for judging photo quality
- For large prints, you can use lower DPI if viewed from a distance