Large-scale signage: getting the resolution right

If there is one quality that can ruin the impact of large-scale signage, it is poor image resolution. Pixelated or fuzzy images will leave people viewing your brand as shoddy and cheap. This blog offers a guide to getting the resolution right for big signs like retail graphics and hoardings.

What is resolution?

All images that are created digitally consist of minute dots known as pixels. The level of image detail is determined by how many pixels it has. The measurement of resolution is dots per inch (DPI), but some companies fail to grasp the difference between images they see online and the printed versions.

Many ultra-sharp online images are just 72 DPI, so when they are blown up for a big sign, the comparative lack of pixels severely reduces the resolution. The result: blurry or grainy images.

What you need to think about

Large-scale signage such as building wraps and hoardings is usually viewed from some distance. Therefore, it may not be necessary to go with really high-resolution images; you just need to get it right. The resolution level will depend on what sort of distance the sign will be looked at from.

Very large signs like hoardings and billboards are viewed long distance. That means between 50 and 100 DPI will work best. Medium-sized signage options such as vinyl wallpapers and window graphics are mostly viewed from the middle distance.

For large format printing in Manchester by professionals who can achieve the best results, contact Ainsley Signs now.