Nikon Scans and Print Size

[pcsmythe]

I'm using a Nikon 9000 scanner, but I have yet to print larger than a 12x18 image. I'm being retained for a job that wants 20x24 - does that exceed the limits of 35mm film without any kind of uprezzing, etc.? If not, what are the limits, if anyone has that experience.

[RITskellar]

I haven't printed that large myself as I haven't had the need, but you could probably do the math yourself depending on what kind of printing you intended to do.

Your pixel resolution for use with a high quality ink jet printer can generally be about 150-200 pixels per inch. I usually have my images at 200 for this purpose, but certainly wouldn't hesitate to use them at 150. However, for offset printing presses, you generally want your image pixel resolution to be 300-350 ppi. Different printing methods have different optimum resolution settings, so you might want to inquire about that first and then figure it out from there.

I use a Nikon 9000 myself, and often scan b/w images at it's full resolution of 4000x5900 (or so), which equates to about a 20"x30" images at 200 ppi, or about 20"x13.5" at 300 ppi.

Hope this helps.
Andy

[Dan States]

The 9000 is an outstanding scanner and you will have no problems creating fine art grade images in the size you require. Resize the images in photoshop and they will look fine. Avoid the tempting notion to start sharpening the files or they will look unnatural. Remember that you don't view a 20x24 at 10", but more like 5'. Spend your efforts getting great tonality from the print and you will love the results.



Best wishes
Dan