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How to prepare a photo for printing: 5 steps
Prepare a photo for printing in five steps: start with the biggest file, read its pixel size, choose a print shape, match pixels to the size at 100 pixels per inch, and check it in the photo quality checker. A 16 x 24 inch print needs 1600 x 2400 pixels. Nothing is uploaded when you check in your browser.
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| Step | What to do | Example |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Start with the biggest file | Shoot at the highest resolution your phone offers and keep reflections off flat artwork. | None |
| 2. Read the pixel size | Find your photo's width and height in pixels in its file details. | Example: 4000 x 3000 px |
| 3. Choose the print shape | Pick a shape close to your photo. A mismatch is cropped away. | 4:3 photo to 3:2 print: 11.1% cut |
| 4. Match pixels to size | At 100 pixels per inch a size needs 100 times its inches on each side. | 16 x 24 in needs 1600 x 2400 px |
| 5. Check it in your browser | Drop the photo into the photo quality checker. Nothing is uploaded. | Runs in your browser |
| Size (in) | Pixels wide x high | Megapixels |
|---|---|---|
| 16 x 24 | 1600 x 2400 | 3.84 |
| 24 x 36 | 2400 x 3600 | 8.64 |
How to use this infographic
- Work through the five steps in order, writing down your photo size in pixels.
- Compare it with the pixels shown for your chosen size.
- Run the photo quality checker for a final look; it runs in your browser.
Questions
How many pixels does a 16 x 24 inch print need?
At 100 pixels per inch it needs 1600 x 2400 pixels, which is 3.84 megapixels.
What is crop loss?
It is the share of a photo cut away when the photo is fitted to a different print shape. A 4:3 photo on a 3:2 print loses 11.1 percent.
Is my photo uploaded when I check it?
No. The photo quality checker tests the photo in your browser and nothing is uploaded.
Sources
- ArtzFolio Custom: photograph artwork or prepare a phone photo for printing (page as of 2026-11-12)
- Printumo: how to photograph artwork for print (fetched 2026-11-12)
- Expert Photography: the easy guide to photographing artwork (fetched 2026-11-12)
- ArtzFolio Custom: photo prep pages (page as of 2026-11-10)
Checklist as of 2026-11-12. Figures are paraphrased or computed from the sources above; the figure carries its own source line. Confirm live prices and terms with ArtzFolio Custom before you order.