Image settings for Online printing

[booggerg]

I want to print a few pics on Mpix.com.

So do they basically determine my image size by the dpi setting of the picture? If not, how should I prepare my images for online printing? Thanks!

[Scottes]

Mpix has some instructions for how to send prints... Let me find it...

OK, actually they don't seem to make it so clear. The do want sRGB, and they do list minimum file sizes which come out to 100 DPI. I feel that this is definitely too coarse and "grainy" so I'd highly recommend 300 DPI for up to 5x7 and 240-300 DPI for larger.

Their instructions for ordering prints:

1. Select an album
2. Select the image(s) to print
3. Click ‘Order Prints’
4. Select the paper you would like to use for the entire order
5. Select individual print sizes for prints, or select special products, if any.
6. Select any retouching options
7. Select finishing services like lustre coating or mounting
8. Crop picture as desired
9. Select printing options which include color, black and white or sepia. Please note, color is the default
10. Proceed to checkout

So you specify the print size for each image.


Mpix also allows you to share images, but images suitable for sharing are far too small for printing. You might usually share an image at 640x425 or close, yet for printing a 4x6 you'd want that same image at 1200x1800, which is 4x6 at 300 DPI. This makes for a 1-2 Meg file - too big for sharing. So I'd keep albums separate - certain albums with big file for printing and other albums with small files for sharing (if you use Mpix for sharing photos).


Hope this helps a bit.

[booggerg]

Thanks! I ordered it up!