Quick answer
Send a 16-bit TIFF (or maximum-quality JPEG) in Adobe RGB or sRGB with the profile embedded, sized at about 300 ppi for the final print, with no sharpening artefacts, and ask for a test strip before the full print.
A beautiful print starts with a clean file. Use this checklist before you send anything to a fine art studio.
1. Check resolution at print size
Divide pixel dimensions by the print size in inches. Around 300 ppi is ideal; 240 ppi is fine for large prints viewed from a distance.
| Print size | Pixels for 300 ppi |
|---|---|
| A4 (21×29.7cm) | 2480 × 3508 |
| A3 (29.7×42cm) | 3508 × 4961 |
| 50×70cm | 5906 × 8268 |
| 70×100cm | 8268 × 11811 |
2. Keep it in RGB
Fine art printers use RGB workflows with paper-specific ICC profiles. Send Adobe RGB (1998) or sRGB with the profile embedded. Don’t convert to CMYK.
3. Choose the right format
A 16-bit TIFF keeps the most tonal information for smooth gradients such as skies. A maximum-quality JPEG is fine for most photographs. Avoid screenshots and images downloaded from social media — they’re compressed and low resolution.
4. Decide on borders
A white paper border of 2–5cm makes framing with a mount easier and protects the image edge during handling. For float mounting or full-bleed looks, discuss it with the studio first.
5. Don’t over-sharpen
Sharpening for screen creates halos in print. Send the file unsharpened or lightly sharpened and let the studio apply output sharpening for the paper.
6. Proof before the full run
Ask the studio to soft-proof with the paper’s ICC profile and print a test strip of the most important areas. Paper is less luminous than a screen, so shadows may need lifting slightly.
7. Scanning original artwork
For paintings and drawings, use a flatbed scanner up to A3 or have the work professionally photographed with even lighting and a colour target. Many Dubai studios, including Lumber Frames, offer digitising and retouching in-house.
Next steps
Pick a paper in the fine art printing guide and compare studios in our printing ranking.
Frequently asked questions
Can I print a photo from my phone?
Yes. Modern phone photos can print well up to around A3, sometimes larger. Send the original file rather than a WhatsApp-compressed copy.
Should I send a PDF?
TIFF or JPEG is preferred for images. PDFs are fine for artwork with text, as long as images inside are high resolution.
What if my file is too small?
A studio can upscale carefully, or suggest a smaller print size or a textured paper that hides softness.