1. Start with the best source file
Use the original camera, scan or design export rather than an image copied from messaging, social media or a web page. Delivery platforms often resize or recompress images.
Check the actual pixel dimensions and inspect important areas at high magnification. Motion blur, missed focus and compression artefacts are source problems; changing DPI metadata will not repair them.
- Locate the highest-resolution original.
- Avoid repeated JPEG saving.
- Confirm that the final edits are present.
- Keep a separate working master before flattening or export.
2. Set final size and crop
Choose the exact trim dimensions and orientation. Apply the intended aspect ratio before calculating resolution, because cropping changes the usable pixel count.
If artwork reaches the edge, add the required bleed and extend the background into it. Keep critical details inside the safe area.
3. Check effective resolution
Divide the cropped pixel dimensions by the corresponding printed dimensions in inches. Check width and height; the lower result is the limiting effective PPI.
Compare the result with the printer’s requirement and expected viewing distance. If enlargement is necessary, use one controlled resampling step and inspect the output rather than trusting the new number alone.
| Check | Question | Action if uncertain |
|---|---|---|
| Pixels | Is this the original-size file? | Find the master source |
| Crop | Does the ratio match the print? | Preview crop or borders |
| PPI | Is effective resolution sufficient? | Adjust size or resample carefully |
| Bleed | Does edge artwork extend beyond trim? | Use printer template |
| Safe area | Are critical details protected? | Move content inward |
4. Follow the production specification
Use the requested file format, colour profile, page dimensions and export settings. A technically valid file can still produce unexpected colour or scale if it ignores the provider’s workflow.
Do not convert colour profiles blindly. If the printer supplies a profile or PDF preset, use its instructions. Embed fonts or outline them only when the workflow calls for it.
5. Inspect the exported file
Open the actual exported file, not only the editable document. Confirm page size, orientation, crop, bleed, image sharpness and missing elements. Zoom out to review composition and zoom in to inspect critical detail.
For important or repeated jobs, order a proof. Screen appearance cannot fully predict paper colour, ink behaviour, finishing or the production equipment used.