How large can you print your photo?
Understand pixels, print resolution and cropping before ordering a print.
Start with the actual pixel dimensions
Look at the image file’s width and height in pixels. A 6,000 × 4,000 image contains 24 million pixels. The file size in megabytes does not directly tell you its print dimensions, because compression and image content affect file size.
Divide pixels by the resolution target
Print width in inches = pixel width ÷ pixels per inch (PPI). At 300 PPI, a 6,000 × 4,000 image produces 20 × 13.33 inches, approximately 50.8 × 33.87 cm. The 300 PPI value is an example target; ask your print provider what they recommend for the product and viewing distance.
Compare the example
A 6,000 × 4,000 pixel image, without cropping or resampling
| Target PPI | Width (in) | Height (in) |
|---|---|---|
| 300 | 20.00 | 13.33 |
| 240 | 25.00 | 16.67 |
| 200 | 30.00 | 20.00 |
On a small screen, scroll the table sideways if needed.
Try this in the calculator
Enter 6000 × 4000 pixels with output in inches. Save results at 300, 240 and 200 PPI. Compare the sizes, then ask your print provider which target suits the specific print and viewing conditions.
Try the example ↗Check the shape before choosing a frame
A 6,000 × 4,000 image has a 3:2 aspect ratio. A 10 × 8 inch print has a 5:4 ratio. Filling that print without borders requires cropping some of the original image. Resolution alone does not check whether the subject fits the new crop.
Recalculate after cropping
If a crop leaves 5,000 × 4,000 pixels, the available print size at 300 PPI becomes about 16.67 × 13.33 inches. Use the dimensions of the final exported file, not the original camera file. Enlarging an image adds pixels but does not necessarily restore captured detail.
Use the numbers as a starting point
Compare more than one resolution target in the calculator, then inspect the image for blur, noise and compression artifacts. PPI is an image-density measure; printer DPI describes a different part of the printing process. For an important print, request a proof from your provider.