Image file size

[byrsta]

I am new to digital photography. Hey, having a problem when trying to send pictures to the folks , other friends and family. Most people use some sort of free email svcs (i.e. hotmail, etc). Most of these put a limit on the user as to how big of files they can receive. When I try to send pictures I can only send 1 or 2 at a time because the file size is so large (i.e. 4-6mbs). I use a Canon XSI set to best picture quality and download everything to Apple iPhoto. What do I need to do to reduce the file size but not reduce the quality of the images I am taking/storing?

[Bob_A]

Honestly a better approach is to get a Smugmug or Zenfolio account and then just send a link to the images. You can even password protect galleries. Considering how much most of us on this forum invest in gear, the cost of using a good image hosting site is really insignificant.

[Mark_Cohran]

If you're just sending them to share via the web and not for printing, a medium quality JPG should be just fine and would easily meet the file size requirements.

[Rex_Ham]

Hi byrsta

If they're not for printing, saving at 72dpi will be fine for a montor and look great. It'll also greatly reduce your file size!

Try FastStone Image Viewer (free - just google it...) It'll also let you see the size of the file (via the options button of the resize dialogue box) before you save it.....

HTH ;)

[Sparky98]

You can use the software that came with your camera, ZoomBrowser, and reduce the size of a photo and the file size making it easier to send them in e-mails. Personally, I find ZoomBrowser confusing to use and use Photoshop Elements instead but once the file size is reduced you just attach the JPG to an e-mail. Try to keep the file around 100 Kb or slightly less and as long as you are not sending more than 2 or 3 photos at a time you should be OK. If you want to share several photos then either send multiple e-mails or get an account at one of the hosting sites and invite your friends and family to visit the site.