Web Image Resolution: How to Optimize your Images for your Website

One of the elements that makes a website appealing, engaging and professional is pictures. Yet too often we come across images that appear stretched, grainy or out of focus, which essentially has the opposite effect. The reason for this is simple: incorrect image resolution. There are basic rules that apply to using images on the web to ensure that they are displayed properly. Let’s take a moment to examine these basics for optimizing images for web use.

In simplest of terms, image resolution refers to the number of pixels per inch (ppi) each image contains. The larger that number, the more you can increase the size of the picture without it becoming blurry or distorted. Basically, an image’s resolution is its quality. If you have a large image with low resolution, it can appear fuzzy. Conversely, a large image with high resolution will be much sharper. It’s important to note, however, that the larger the image you use, the more time it will take to load which can become a hindrance to your web visitors.

Most computer monitors are only able to accurately display images with a resolution of 72-96 ppi. While larger files will certainly display, they won’t look any different than their lower-resolution version and will take forever to load. When it comes to use on the web, you want your images to be as small in file size as possible so that your pages load quickly. Reducing the resolution will help to get your images as small in size as possible without compromising quality.

Resolution on existing pictures can be manipulated to be optimized through the use of various tools available on the web. One such tool is Web Resizer, which allows you to reduce the size of your image while also effectively improving its sharpness. It’s important to note that the maximum file size for this free tool is 5mb. Another option is to download image resizing software directly to your computer for use anytime, even if you’re not connected to the internet. Fast Image Resizer is one such program that offers basic, no hassle and fast resizing of pictures for optimum use on the web.

In conclusion, achieving optimum appearance and performance of your website requires that the images you use be the proper size and resolution. When it comes to pictures on the web, bigger isn’t always better. By keeping this in mind, and utilizing the free tools available to you, you can ensure that your pictures will be displayed properly and will lend to the professional look and feel of your website.