How to Print a Large Image
Some home desktop printers are capable of creating images with a width of 12 inches or slightly more. Or you may have access to a wide-format printer that can deliver a width of 44 inches. Either way, printing a large image does not take many more steps than printing a small one. Because of the expense of paper and ink that is used, it's a wise idea to make a number of test strips to verify contrast and color balance before committing to a large print.
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Instructions
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Choose a paper that is suited to print large images. Consider the quality needed for your print, and what surface (glossy, matte, etc.) you prefer. Your printer may also be capable of using a roll instead of a sheet of paper. If possible, select the same type of paper as the manufacturer of your printer.
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Clean the print heads on your printer. This prevents lines, known as banding, as well as color shifts. Right-click the printer icon in the taskbar, located in the lower-right corner of your screen. Follow the step-by-step instructions after clicking the option to clean the print heads.
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Open the file in your computer's imaging software. Navigate to the file information to view the size and resolution of your image. Keep in mind that a file with a resolution of 72 dpi (dots per inch) will print with pixelation. Your file should be at least 150 dpi in the size you want to print, and 300 dpi or higher for best quality.
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Select a portion of your image to use as a test strip. Choose an area that contains a variety of highlights, shadows and midtones, as well as captures any significant color. You may need to make more than one selection for this. Use the software's selection tools to copy this area of the image, then "Copy" (CTRL+C) and "Paste" (CTRL+V) the sample into a new file.
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Select "Print" from the "File" menu in the software. Select the option called "Page Options" or "Print Options," depending on your software model. This will bring up a dialog box specific to your printer.
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Select the type of media being used. The instruction sheet with your paper may suggest a certain media based on your printer manufacturer. Choose the print quality level, keeping in mind the highest quality will use the most ink. Uncheck the box that says "Center Image," and enter in border measurements of 1/2-inch on top and left. This leaves room on your paper (or part of the roll) for multiple test strips if necessary.
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Load a sheet of paper into your printer on its correct side, or attach the roll paper according to the printer's instructions. Press "Print" and examine the results of the test strip. Takes notes on any adjustments that are needed to the strip, such as color balance, color intensity or contrast.
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Load a new sheet of paper, or cut off the test portion of the roll, once you have made a test strip that shows your desired results. Apply the changes made to the test strips to your original large image. Repeat the print process with the large image.
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References
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- Photo Credit The printer image by vin5 from Fotolia.com
