dpi issues

[davep90]

Can anyone help?
I have prepared 16x12 images to go to print @ 300dpi but when I upload them the the company print page it says 238dpi?
Am I doing something wrong or do print companies reduce the dpi to suit?

 

[droj]

They probably print at 238dpi. What led you to output your chosen size @ 300dpi? Check their literature.

 

[davep90]

They probably print at 238dpi. What led you to output your chosen size @ 300dpi? Check their literature.

just uploaded @ 300dpi as thought uploading the original max dpi would give me a better image than reduced? I searched the printers website but couldnt find a reason why it was reduced.

 

[droj]

It's common for a printer to suggest an optimum (or native) resolution for their process. Peak Imaging for instance state 254dpi for one of their product lines. I wouldn't worry about it over much.

There are other issues with printers such as the colour space of supplied files, and it seems that often their default is to apply auto adjustments (white point, black point, etc) - remember that they get sent a gamut of quality of work. I have the impression that some may also apply some sharpening! I would prefer to choose a printer who allows an option of non-intervention - ie they print the file as sent if asked to do so. It's up to you then to set up the file to get the best result (the human eye is better than any automated process, and only you can know your full intent).

 

[theurbanclown]

What size in pixels were the original images? My guess is they weren't large enough to be printed at 16 x 12" @ 300 dpi so were done at a lower res.

They'll still be good quality though.

 

[JT74]

What size in pixels were the original images? My guess is they weren't large enough to be printed at 16 x 12" @ 300 dpi so were done at a lower res.

They'll still be good quality though.

Anything less than 4800 x 3600 and they won't be 300dpi...

 

[davep90]

Thanks for the replies guys.
Your help is much appreciated.
I'm kind of a novice at printing stuff.