Question
What file format should I use for headshot printing?
Answer
Headshots live or die on skin tone and fine detail, so your file setup matters as much as the shot itself. Send a print-ready file that holds resolution at full size and uses the color space presses actually print in.
- Format: a flattened, high-resolution PDF or JPEG is the safest choice for photo prints.
- Resolution: at least 300 DPI at the final print size, so an 8x10 should be roughly 2400x3000 pixels.
- Color mode: CMYK, not RGB, so skin tones do not shift when the file hits the press.
- Retouching: finish all edits before export, since sharpening and color work cannot be added back after printing.
| Print size | Minimum pixels at 300 DPI |
|---|---|
| 5x7 | 1500 x 2100 |
| 8x10 | 2400 x 3000 |
| 11x14 | 3300 x 4200 |
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