What DPI means
DPI (dots per inch, often used interchangeably with PPI – pixels per inch) describes how many image pixels are packed into each inch of the printed result. The more pixels per inch, the finer the detail. For print viewed up close – flyers, cards, brochures – 300dpi at the printed size is the standard.
How to work out if an image is big enough
Divide the image's pixel width by the print width in inches (1 inch = 25.4mm). For 300dpi:
- A6 (105mm wide) needs about 1,240 pixels across.
- A5 (148mm wide) needs about 1,750 pixels.
- A4 (210mm wide) needs about 2,480 pixels.
- A3 (297mm wide) needs about 3,510 pixels.
You can find an image's pixel size in its file properties (Windows) or Get Info (Mac).
Large format is different
Posters, pull-up banners and PVC banners are viewed from further away, so they need fewer dots per inch at full size – 150dpi is usually fine for A1 and A0 posters, and 100–150dpi for banners. That is why a good phone photo can work on a pull-up, but a small image from a website will not.
Common traps
- Images copied from websites or social media are usually too small and compressed.
- WhatsApp compresses photos – send originals by email or upload directly.
- Changing the DPI number in software without adding pixels does nothing to quality.
- Enlarging a small image in Canva or Word makes it blurry in print even if it looks fine on screen.
- Logos should be vector files, which stay sharp at any size.
If an image is too small, find the original, use a different image, or ask for design help. See also preparing a print-ready PDF and canvas printing for photo prints.
Ordering your printing: choose your options and quantity in the shop, upload a print-ready PDF and pay by card through Yoco or by EFT. Orders under R5,000 are paid in full before production; orders of R5,000 or more need a 65% deposit. Production starts once payment and approved artwork are both in. Collect from Shop L23, Rivonia Central (opposite NewsCafe Rivonia), Monday to Friday 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, or ask for delivery to be arranged and quoted.
