Printing is one of the most satisfying ways to share your photos — but it takes a bit of prep to get it right. Screen colors, file sizes, and image formats all behave differently in print than they do online.

What to Check Before Printing

  • Resolution: Aim for 300 DPI at the desired print size
  • File format: Use TIFF or high-quality JPEG
  • Color mode: Some printers prefer sRGB; others support Adobe RGB
  • Cropping: Resize to match the print aspect ratio (4×6, 5×7, etc.)

How to Prepare

  • Edit on a calibrated screen if possible
  • Leave space for bleed or framing
  • Use soft proofing tools to preview how colors will print

Tips

  • Test with smaller prints before ordering large ones
  • Save a copy with edits flattened and sharpening applied
  • Ask your print lab if they offer color correction — and if you can opt out

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