actually, all you have to do is understand the image size dialogue box. Also, all cameras by default upload their images at 72. This is just a default setting. However this doesn't mean the image is low resolution at all, and this is because the pixel dimensions are very large (assuming you are using a high setting on the camera).
Take a close look at the image size dialogue box with one of your newly uploaded images. Notice that it is broken up into two sections: pixel dimensions and document size.
The pixel dimensions represent your actual image data. The document size only refers to printing.
Notice the constrain proportion box and the resample box at the bottom. If you keep the constrain proportion box checked and the resample box UNchecked, the pixel dimensions should be grayed out. This is what you want.
Now, change the inch dimensions to 11x14. This will change the dpi. It should be alot higher now.
So basically your camera makes really huge images (in pixel dimensions) at 72 dpi. You need to simply uncheck the resample button and change the settings in the document size section to what you need. Thus you will not accidentally degrade your image. Remember if you have the resample button on, any changes you make will affect the image data. If you try to make the pixel dimensions bigger, Photoshop will have to "make up" pixels that weren't there, not resulting in any enhancement. If you decrease the pixel dimensions, then you will have a smaller image to print, or to email etc. Rule of thumb: it is always better to scale down than up.
Hope this makes sense. A good resource that explains this in detail is Adobe Photoshop 7.0 Studio Techniques by Ben Wilmore. It has a great section on resolution and digital cameras, as well as being a great book in general.
Good luck! |
