What resolution and file type really mean when preparing digital artwork for screens or print.

Pixels describe the available detail

For screens, pixel dimensions matter more than a traditional DPI label. A website hero and a large display may need very different crops even when both appear at similar physical sizes.

Print needs a destination

There is no single “print-ready” size. Required resolution depends on the final dimensions, viewing distance and printing process. Ask the printer for the target size, colour profile and bleed before preparing the final file.

Choose the format deliberately

JPEG is efficient for complex photographic imagery, PNG supports transparency and lossless detail, and WebP provides strong web compression. Keep an untouched master file before producing delivery versions.

Practical checklist

• Confirm final pixel or print dimensions.
• Crop for the intended aspect ratio.
• Keep a high-quality master.
• Export a separate web-optimised copy.
• Check colour and sharpness at actual output size.
• Do not enlarge repeatedly exported files.

Use these principles as a starting point, then adapt them to the audience, channel and creative goal of your project. The best results come from a clear intention and a willingness to iterate.