resizing to 4x6 size

I want to include files optimized for 4x6 prints to my clients, what settings

should I use in Lightroom when I export? The options are dpi, max. size (length

and width). This is for weddings, so I am usually burning 400 - 500 images to a

cd. This would come with the purchase of a dvd, but I've have gotten complaints

that labs can't print from dvd. It would also allow them to have a low res for

email, MySpace, etc.

 

Thanks,

Sam

An optimised file for 4x6 is still a bit large for myspace or emails, isn't it? Anyway, 300dpi and 1200x1800 pixels all in all is probably the way to go.

Burn 2 CD's if you have to.

300 ppi so 4x6 is 1200 x 1800.

 

To provide smaller images is a risk for printing. You can`t optimise for both prints and low rez for mail.

In lightroom you can "restrain" the image size. Specify the exact size you want in your case 4x6. This makes for a way smaller but good quality file. You can also change t he quality in very specific increments.

 

Do a few experiments and you will come up with what works for you.

 

I routinely export a set of smaller files for use in proof book printing and then a full size high res set for album design.

 

Easy to automate!

 

Brooke

Thanks for the input.

The idea was to have one dvd and one cd to keep things simple. The cd is recommended for 4x6s only since that is the most common size. Bob, even two cds wouldn't handle all the photos. That's why I do a dvd and a cd. One hi-res, one low res for easy viewing and 4x6s. It might still be too big for MySpace or email, but at least it will be faster to view and will benefit those without a dvd drive.

 

The reason I asked this in the forum was I figured someone else out there already did the experimenting and could give an easy answer. I did have a thought after reading the answers and checked Printroom's recommendation, I used to use them. Their suggestion is 600x750. Remember, this is for a decent print for their convenience. They should use the high res files or order from Smugmug for the best quality.

 

So now I'll make cd files at 300 dpi with a max size of 750 pixels. This will give them a decent file they can have small prints made.

 

Thanks.

Sam

I don't really think 750 pixels wide will give you a clear 4X6 print. I would test it before giving a client that low of a rez file and tell them that they can print a 4X6 from it.

I think the longest side is related to the DPI, I believe that 1680 at 240 is the '6' side in 4x6? I thought I was in Photoshop and saw that?

I use 4 CD's of high rez images (400-500) for most weddings. I also put the same files on a DVD. Along with these I include a folder on the DVD with all the images as 1200x1800 pixels for 4x6 prints, and another folder with 400x600 images for email. If they want to print 4x6 pints quicker than using the high rez images, they can make their own CD with the medium rez image files.

I use 1 DVD and I include 2 folder Email & Printing. I have created 3 actions. one for web and one 4x6 vertical 1 for 4x6 horiz.