filesize02

For large format printing it is important that your original files are large enough to have sufficient resolution for good quality output at your required size. Insufficient resolution or filesize can cause defects often described as 'pixelated' or 'bitmapped', also files cannot simply be resampled in editing programs such as Photoshop as this will create blurred images with lack of detail. To help you determine the file sizes and resolutions required for a given output size, use the guide below.

 Rough guide to resolution requirements by product and application

Banners for distance viewing

Banners for close up viewing

Standard Quality Backlits
and Posters

High Quality Backlits
and Posters

Photo Quality Backlits
and Posters

50 dpi

75 dpi

100 dpi

150 dpi

200 dpi

The chart above should give you an idea as to the resolution and file size you will need for the size of print you require. Now you can use the file size, resolution, and output size calculators below to determine specific file size requirements for your desired output size and desired output resolution.

Using the interactive calculators...

  • If you are scanning an image, use the first calculator to determine file size requirements for given output size and desired resolution.
  • If you already have a file, use the second calculator to determine the output resolution that is possible at the dimensions you require.
  • Use the final calculator to determine the output size limitations of a given original size, file size, and desired output resolution.
  • Calculate File Size

    Width
    (inches)

    Height
    (inches)

    Resolution
    (dpi)

    File Size (MB)
    (RGB)

    File Size (MB)
    (CMYK)

    Fill in the 3 fields above


    Calculate Resolution

    File Size
    (MB)

    Width
    (inches)

    Height
    (inches)

    Colorspace

    Resolution
    (dpi)

    RGB

    Fill in the 3 fields above

    CMYK


    Calculate Output Size

    Original Size
    (inches)

    File Size (MB)

    Desired Output
    Resolution (dpi)

    Colorspace

    Output Size Limit
    (inches)

    Width

    Height

    RGB

    Width

    Height

    Fill in the 4 fields above

    CMYK

    Width

    Height