PRINT SIZE AND DPI
How to Calculate Image Pixels for Print Size
To estimate the pixel dimensions for a print, multiply the print width and height in inches by the requested pixels per inch (PPI) or DPI. Then check the crop and the printer’s requirements.
Use the pixels-for-print formula
Multiply the print width in inches by the chosen pixel density to estimate the pixel width. Repeat for height. At 300 pixels per inch, an 8 × 10 inch print needs about 2400 × 3000 pixels before cropping. For centimetres, divide by 2.54 first.
Match the image shape to the paper
A source photo and print area may have different aspect ratios. A 4:3 photo will not exactly fill a 4 × 6 inch frame without cropping or leaving a margin. Decide which option the print job needs and keep important subjects inside the safe area.
Know what DPI or PPI can change
Digital images are made of pixels. PPI describes how many image pixels are placed in each physical inch; DPI describes printer dots. Changing density metadata alone does not create new image detail. Resampling can add pixel values but cannot recover detail missing from the source.
Prepare and verify the file
Check whether the printer wants JPG, PNG, PDF, a specific pixel size or a particular resolution. Keep proportions locked unless the print needs a crop. After export, verify the dimensions and open the file in the print workflow; some software interprets metadata differently.
Set a physical size in Still Studio
Still Studio lets you enter print dimensions in inches or centimetres and choose a DPI value. It calculates the pixel dimensions for export. JPG and PNG exports can include print-density metadata in this workflow; WebP keeps its pixels but does not receive that metadata. Use the provider’s instructions as the final check.