Thanks for linking this, Mitch! A fun tutorial, and some neat techniques! It does raise one off-topic question... Image resolution.

I used to keep all of my images as 300 ppi, but then heard so many compelling arguments that 240 was all one needed, that I scaled back in favor of smaller file size. Mark says 360 for Epson printers or 300 for Canon and HP. I print on the Canon 9500. Should I go back to 300 ppi?

Thanks, as always!

Lauren

A good question. A thorny one, too, when I read comments on other sites.

Optimum resolution (mainly) depends on your output device. The idea of optimum is to keep the file size to a minimum. A document/image at optimum will give you the fastest speed, whether transferring it, viewing it, or printing it.

The same 8 × 10" image at 180ppi may take a minute to print to a color inkjet. Increase that to 300ppi and you will probably at least double that time.

The printer manufacturer usually has a recommended resolution, somewhere in the printer documentation or on their site. Their FAQ is probably a god starting point, if you go to their site.

After you find that recommendation, then run some tests.

It's important to remember that different papers will have an effect as well.  So will things like settings for print quality.

I print most everything at 240ppi. I find the difference in quality, even at 12 x 18 to be something that requires a loupe. At normal viewing distance, undetectable. Printing time increases, however. With Epson printers, using the highest resolution on the printer also increases ink consumption. Again. you'll need a loupe to see the difference -- and if you need to get out a loupe on an 8 x12 or 12 x 18, you can bet the difference will be indistinguishable at normal viewing distance.

Thanks, Mitch.

While I will dig into Canon's documentation, I have been very comfortable with the results that I am getting at 12 x 18. Anyone who feels compelled to inspect my work with a loupe probably doesn't want to purchase it anyway!!

Lauren