Getting the best results from your printed photos starts with using the right file settings. This guide explains the key factors—file type, resolution (DPI), image size, and color profile—so you can ensure your images print clearly, with accurate color and detail.
What’s included in this article?
- Recommended File Settings
- What Is DPI (Resolution)?
- Understanding File Size
- Understanding Image Size (Pixel Dimensions)
- Low-Resolution Warnings
- Color Profile & Color Mode
- Why Photos May Print Dark
- Uploading Images with Transparent Backgrounds
Recommended File Settings
For the highest-quality print, we recommend:
- File type: JPG, PNG, HEIC, and WEBP
- DPI (resolution): 300 DPI
- Color profile: sRGB
What Is DPI (Resolution)?
DPI (dots per inch) refers to how much detail is packed into your image. It directly impacts how sharp your photo will appear in print.
- 300 DPI → Best quality (recommended)
- Below 300 DPI → May result in softness or pixelation
- Below 150 DPI → Will trigger a low-resolution warning in our editor
Photos from phones, social media, or screenshots are often 72 DPI, which is optimized for screens—not printing.
Understanding File Size
File size is the overall size of your image file (measured in KB or MB).
- Larger files often contain more detail—but not always
- File size alone does not determine print quality
Upload limit:
Images must be under 40MB to upload to our site.
Understanding Image Size (Pixel Dimensions)
Image size refers to the number of pixels in your photo (width × height). This determines how large your image can be printed while staying sharp.
A simple rule:
More pixels = better quality at larger sizes
Examples at 300 DPI:
- 900 × 1500 pixels → 3 × 5 inches
- 3300 × 4300 pixels → 11 × 14 inches
- 7200 × 10800 pixels → 24 × 36 inches
If you print an image larger than it was designed for, it may appear blurry or pixelated.
Low-Resolution Warnings
Our editor will alert you if an image may not print clearly.
- Triggered when an image is 150 DPI or lower at the selected size
- Based on both DPI and the size of the photo box
For example:
An image may work well for a small print but show a warning if enlarged significantly.
Color Profile & Color Mode
We require images to be uploaded in the sRGB color profile.
- Ensures consistent, accurate color in print
- Other profiles (like Adobe RGB) may result in unexpected color shifts
Note:
While we print using CMYK, images should still be uploaded in sRGB for best results.
Why Photos May Print Dark
Images often appear brighter on screens because screens are backlit, while prints are not.
Additionally, many of our products use matte paper, which absorbs more ink and can deepen darker tones.
Tips for best results:
- Lower your screen brightness to around 50%
- Slightly increase brightness and contrast before printing
For more details, please review our "How to Edit Your Photos for Different Paper Types" guide.
Uploading Images with Transparent Backgrounds
You can upload images with transparent backgrounds.
- Transparent areas will print as white on most products
- We recommend reviewing a PDF proof before ordering to confirm the final look
If you’re unsure how your file will print, our team is happy to help.