Quote Originally Posted by JJphoto


Joel,, when you crop your picture like this heavy, how big you can print your picture without compromise the the IQ? how do I know the MAX size I can print for a given size of file without losing IQ? thanks!

Take the resolution and divide it my the width of your print and you can figure out the dots per inch. Generally you don't want to go lower than 200 DPIwhich looks good an a larger print (13x19 or so). 100 DPI is about as low as you want to go for a larger print counting enlargement software, with out enlargement software 100 DPIit looks pretty soft. Also larger prints can get away with lower DPI, 100 DPI on a 4x6 looks terrible! But 100 DPI would look great on a 60x90.Ahigher contrast image also looks a bit sharper than a lower cotrast image.


It also depends on your personalstandard for what's exceptable,if I canI don't like to print anything lower than 300/350 DPI depending on the contrast of the image. But that's not always possible.


If you have a good printer such as the Epson R1900 or the canonPRO 9000/PRO 9500 you have a lot more control of the quality and colors of you print. Plus it's a bit cheaper with Canon inks and lot cheaper with third party inks.


You can also use higher quality paper than most printing services which can make a bigger difference than the printer. I really like the EpsonPremium glossy paperwhich isEpsons bestpaper.The Canon's Platinum is very good too and cheaper, but not quite as glossy and smooth. Most people regardtheEpsonas thebest photo paper regardless of theprinter. And I agree!


John.