Virtual Exhibition Project

How to Resize Images

Typically, there are several reasons why you'd want to resize an image: to make it larger or smaller, or to change the resolution (for example, from 72 to 300 PPI).

If your image has low resolution, be sure not to increase its dimensions any further, which only results in even lower quality resolution. Instead, find a better original image that has more pixel data (resolution).

Resolution Explained

• Image Resolution: the amount of detail an image has stored in its file (pixels or dots)
  • High resolution = more detail/clarity
• PPI: the number of pixels displayed per inch on screen
  • More pixels per inch (PPI) = more detail
• DPI: the number of dots displayed on print media per inch
  • More dots per inch (DPI) = more detail
• Image Dimensions: the size (width x height) of the image relative to its format

Click on the button below to learn more about image resolution, resizing images, file types and more. 

Learn More

Tools and Guides for Resizing Images

Preview

Preview on macOS is a built-in image viewer that allows you to resize images while evaluating resolution and file size.

Single Image Resizing in Preview

Multiple Image Resizing in Preview

GNU Image Manipulation Program 

GNU Image Manipulation Program is an open-source image editor for Linux, macOS and PC.
Image Resizing in GNU Image Manipulation Program

Photoshop

Photoshop is available at The Performing Arts Resource Center (PARC) and the Visual Resources Center (VRC). Note: the VRC is appointment-based. Make an appointment at the VRC.

Image Resizing in Photoshop