Images: How much DPI makes sense?

The question of the optimal DPI density arises again and again. However, there is no general answer to how many DPI makes sense for images. The number of dots per inch depends on various factors.

With which resolution you achieve the best result

First of all, it is important to know that you cannot set the DPI of your image yourself - at least not directly.

• The DPI value represents the number of pixels per inch in relation to the selected size of the image. This means that you change the DPI the moment you set the size of the image.
• How high the DPI value will then be on your printed images does not necessarily have to be identical to the value that you have after the size has been determined.
• When printing, it depends on how many DPI the respective device can output.
• 300 dpi is usually given as a guideline for photos. Ultimately, the decisive factor is which resolution the devices of your photo service provider can display.
• For devices from photo service providers, the DPI value is usually between 200 and 500 dpi, whereby the size of the photos is also decisive.
• The larger the image, the lower the number of DPI, which can only be 150 DPI.
• However, the lower DPI number for large photos is not particularly dramatic, as they are usually viewed from a greater distance. Therefore, the overall impression of the picture usually plays a more important role than the fine details.
• Apart from that, the human eye is only able to absorb the subtleties to a limited extent. Therefore, a too high DPI value would also make less sense for very large images.
• Of course, the quality of your camera is also important for the result of your pictures. The question often arises as to how many megapixels make sense.
• Apart from that, a good image editing program such as the free and extensive Gimp can be used to optimize a lot.