Photo Scan DPI Calculator
Calculate the pixel dimensions, megapixels, file size, and printable size of an old photo scan before you digitize it.
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Photo Scan DPI Calculator
Enter the physical size of your print and a scan resolution to estimate the resulting pixels, megapixels, and printable size.
Pixel dimensions3,600 × 2,400 px
Image resolution8.6 megapixels
Approx. uncompressed RGB25.9 MB
Print size at 300 DPI12 × 8 in
Practical default: use 600 DPI for most old family prints. Use 1200 DPI for wallet-size photographs or when the print contains very fine detail. Choose the scanner's optical resolution rather than an interpolated setting.
How To Use
- Measure the width and height of the physical photo in inches.
- Enter those dimensions in the calculator.
- Choose 300, 600, 1200, or 2400 DPI based on the source and intended use.
- Use the calculated pixel dimensions to check your scanner settings.
Common Use Cases
- Choose the best DPI for scanning old family photos
- Estimate whether a scan is large enough to print
- Plan storage space before digitizing an album
- Compare 300 DPI, 600 DPI, and 1200 DPI scans
FAQs
What DPI should I use to scan old photos?
Use 600 DPI for most family prints you want to restore or enlarge. Use 300 DPI for same-size prints and sharing, and consider 1200 DPI for wallet-size photos or fine detail.
Is 1200 DPI always better than 600 DPI?
No. A higher setting creates a larger file but cannot capture detail the print or scanner does not contain. Prefer true optical resolution and compare a small test area.
Should I save scans as TIFF or JPEG?
Keep a lossless TIFF or PNG master when storage allows, then make JPEG copies for easy sharing. Never overwrite the untouched master scan.