Help with dpi for printed material.

[think5577]

Alright everyone. Im new to the hole print thing but Im giving it a try. I understand dpi and all that good stuff. What I need is like a chart giving me the recommended dpi vs. deminsions. I understand it has something to do with my printer as well. Any, ANY insight on this would be great, ie a website or some sort of reference.

Oh by the way, my two files im working with are

1.) 4.75in X 4.75in
2.) 5.5in X 7.8in

Thanks again.

[greg.harvey]

Recommended DPI vs. dimensions? There's no such thing. Regardless of dimensions, DPI can be anything. Recommended DPI vs. intended use of media is really the key. For example, if you're sending a graphic to print in a magazine or newspaper it'll be 300 dpi. If you want to print a gorgeous glossy photo on an Epson printer you might go up to 600 dpi or maybe even 1200 dpi depending on the quality of your printer. If you're optimizing something for screen it'll usually be 72 dpi (unless it's for a Mac, then sometimes 96 dpi is appropriate).

You get me?

G

[think5577]

Cool, ok, thanks. Ill keep that in mind. All I needed was the numbers and for which media.

Thanks.

[greg.harvey]

So that info is ok then? Don't forget also that there's absolutely no point in resizing a 72 dpi image to 1200 dpi and printing it out on a hi-res inkjet. You may as well save on ink and leave it at 72 dpi cos you won't do anything for the quality!

G

[think5577]

Yeah, I made 2 printed pieces at 72dpi so Im redoing them for 300. I went to Kinkos last night and printed something out and it turned out all crappy cause it was at 72dpi. I totally forgot about it but I only lost a buck 50 so Im redoing it.

[think5577]

One more thing. Im messing around in PS7. What do you recommend my text be for print? Anti-aliasing (none, sharp, crisp, strong or smooth)?

[greg.harvey]

Well for print I tend to go for smooth. A purist would probably say sharp, as smooth may detract from the original 'cut' of the font slightly. I only use strong for web work cos it just makes things stand out on screen that little bit more without going bold.