Pixels ÷ PPI = print size in inches
A 3,000 × 2,000 pixel photo prints at 10 × 6.67 inches at 300 PPI. At 150 PPI, the same pixels cover 20 × 13.33 inches. A larger print spreads those pixels over more paper; changing a resolution label does not add detail. Multiply inches by 2.54 to convert to centimeters.
Which PPI should you choose?
300 PPI is a useful planning target for a small print viewed closely. A large print seen from farther away may work at a lower density. Paper, printer, processing, image sharpness, and viewing distance all affect the result. Ask your print provider for its file requirements. See Adobe’s print-resolution guidance.
Why can a 5×7 crop a 4×6 photo?
4×6 has a 2:3 aspect ratio, while 5×7 has a 5:7 ratio. Filling the new shape trims some of the image. The calculator reports the percentage of image area removed, assuming an aspect-preserving crop. It does not choose which edge to remove. Read our illustrated 4×6 vs 5×7 comparison.
PPI and DPI are different
PPI measures image pixels per inch of print. DPI describes a printer’s dots per inch; printers may use many ink dots to reproduce one image pixel. Use image PPI for this calculation, rather than a printer’s advertised DPI.
Every common size in one chart
See the photo print sizes chart for wallet to 24×36 prints, with the pixels each one needs at 300 PPI and how much of a camera or phone photo it crops. Each row opens this calculator with that size selected.
Plan the page with a contact sheet or prepare a five-photo collage.