File Size and Pixelation
What is Pixelation?
Pixelation occurs when we enlarge an image to print size and the individual square pixels that make up an image are visible. Pixelation is closely tied to file size. We typically need a file that is greater than 1MB to enlarge to a 16x20” canvas.
Why is my image pixelated?
Pixelation typically occurs when we try to enlarge a file to a size that is much larger than the file size allows. To identify the root cause of the pixelation we need to look at the source of the image. We have made a list of the most common sources of pixelated images and our recommendations for gaining a useable file.
How do I fix my image so it’s not pixelated?
In the source troubleshooting guide below, we have included detailed intructions based on how you received your image to walk you through how to obtain a larger version.
For specific information on required file size click here.
Source troubleshooting guide:
Facebook, Instagram, Snapfish, Shutterfly or another social media/photo sharing site
Why is my image pixelated?
Most websites do not store the full resolution of the image you uploaded. Once you upload your photo to these sites, they become a compressed version of the original. Although they may look high resolution on your computer or mobile device, once printed they may appear pixelated.
Solution
Track down the original version of the image or request a high resolution version of the image from the owner or photographer.
If you uploaded the file to the photo-sharing site we will need the original high resolution version of the file. If you downloaded the image from a friend’s album, or a professional photo gallery, you will need to contact that person and request a high resolution file.
A Professional Photographer
Why is my image pixelated?
You may have a version of the image that is meant for a smaller print or for web viewing only. Images that are downloaded from a photo gallery or taken from a screenshot will produce a very low resolution image. If you have a professional image, please ensure that you have obtained the rights from your photographer to reproduce the image.
Solution
Contact your photographer with the details of your project so they can provide the correct file size and resolution.
Google Images, Pinterest, or other web search
Why is my image pixelated?
If you downloaded the file from a pinterest link, blog, or search engine image search, it is highly likely the file you acquired was a low resolution file meant for web use only. Many files downloaded from these types of sites are also subject to copyright laws (see our copyright information page here).
Solution
You can try asking the owner of the image for a larger version of the image and permission to print the image. In most cases we find that a larger file cannot be obtained and that a new image must be chosen.
I received my image via e-mail or text
Why is my image pixelated?
Images that are emailed or texted are typically become compressed before sending. This results in a lower resolution file than the original.
Solution
Track down the original file. If it needs to be emailed to you again, make sure the sender sets the file to send at “actual” or “original” size. We do not recommend sending images via text message. If you received an email containing an upload link, You can forward this email with the upload link directly to the person that owns the photo and have them upload the high resolution file. If you need help uploading your image see our Upload Page
Scanned from a physical print
Why is my image pixelated?
Your image may have been scanned at a resolution (dpi) less than 600 or your original image may have already been pixelated before scanning.
Solution
We need a high resolution scan in order to enlarge it for printing. Rescan your photo with resolution or dpi of at least 600 and save the file as a jpg or tif. We also recommend taking a close look at the print itself. If the photo you are scanning looks pixelated or soft already, then any scan you make will also be pixelated or soft, regardless of the resolution of the scan. Utilize your local copy shop if you have any issues with your scanner. Make sure you request a high resolution scan of over 600dpi.
I edited the original file
Why is my image pixelated?
Some applications used for editing your photos may produce a final version that has been compressed or is intended for web use only. Also, if you zoomed into the image too far, you may have compromised the original quality of the image.
Solution
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If you edit the file through an app by adding a filter or special effects, you will need to check and see if there is an option to download a high resolution file from the app. If you are unable to find this as an option and can only access a small file, you will need to submit the original file without the effects. Please note we cannot match filters applied by third party sites.
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If you zoomed in and cropped the image via the edit feature on your phone or computer you may inadvertently cause pixelation. You will need to include more of the original image or choose a different image in order to proceed.
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If you edited the image in photoshop or lightroom, make sure the base file you were working from is high resolution. If the base file is low in resolution then you will need to choose a new image in order to proceed. We also recommend checking your camera settings at this point to make sure your camera is not set to take small, low resolution images.
I used the zoom function on my cameraphone
Why is my image pixelated?
The digital zoom crops in on the subject and trims away the excess area that would appear had the zoom not been used. The result is an image that tends to look very soft and pixelated when enlarged.
Solution
We will need a new image in this case. We recommend not using the digital zoom option on any image that you are planning on enlarging.