Understanding Aspect Ratio

Understanding Aspect Ratio

 

Aspect Ratio is an important rule of thumb if you want your print to match what you see on your screen. Aspect Ratio refers to the proportional relationship between the height and width of the image, regardless of size, output or unit of measurement. For example, a 4 in. x 4 in. print has the same aspect ratio as 10 ft. x 10 ft. banner. Aspect ratio becomes just a little more difficult when we start working with rectangles other than squares. For instance, if you take a 4x6 print and enlarge the image to print an 8x10, you would lose two inches of the print because the two images sizes are not proportional. By using the common multiplier of “2”, (2x4=8, 2x6=12) we can determine that the appropriate size, according to proportion, would be 8x12. Aspect ratios are usually referred to in their smallest equal ratio, similar to fractions. In the case of the 4x6, we would say that it’s a 2:3 aspect ratio, as both numbers can be divided by 2.


Let’s complicate it just a little more by using two different units of measurement. Your live view is typically measured in pixels, rather than inches. If we want to have a proportional live view to our 2:3 aspect ratio image, we can multiply our aspect ratio, 2x3 x 300 pixels, which would give us 600×900 pixels. If that seems a little small, you can try 1000×1500 (aspect ratio x 500). Below are some examples of how different aspect ratios will affect the same image. I know you are asking"Why do we use 2:3?" Well that is because your camera sensor more than likely that same ratio and this is actually based on 35mm film.








    • Related Articles

    • I am only getting a single 2x6 and it is cut in half

      Darkroom Booth  |  Documentation                                                                                                                                                                                                Most dye sub printers like ...
    • Using the new Aspect Ratio Options

    • My photo strips are off center? (Understanding Bleed)

      Darkroom Booth  |  Documentation                                                                                                                                                  First, an explanation about Bleed. Note: The bleed adjustment is not for ...
    • How do I set the 2x6 vs 4x6 cut on my printer?

      Darkroom Booth  |   Video instructions                                                                                                                                                                             Darkroom Booth can automatically set ...
    • Adjusting the Alignment with DNP DS40, RX-1, and DS620

      Darkroom Booth 2.5 or Higher | Documentation The strip alignment comes preset and should be close but printers vary and with paper changes may need slight adjustments. With the DNP DS40, DS620A and the RX-1 there is a centering adjustment that allows ...