Datasheet

In Terms of Resolution
Pixels are the smallest visual unit in an image. Each pixel (short for picture element) rep-
resents a single color or tone. The pixels are organized in rows and columns like blocks
or tiles to map out the details, one tiny image pixel at a time. The multitude of pixels in
an image (numbering more often in the millions for consumer digital cameras) blends
together in our vision to create the look and feel of an image in tone (light and dark)
and color (hue and saturation). The more pixels you have in an image, the greater
potential detail.
Figure 1.1
This flower is rendered here with the correct resolution for print in this book (a), one-eighth the proper resolution (b), and one-
twelfth the resolution (c). Images with less resolution than necessary will appear with too little detail and become blocky.
ab c
“Potential” detail is mentioned several times. While there is potential to retain more detail
with higher pixel counts, limitations of your equipment, poor focus, bad lighting, and bad
image handling can all lead to situations where detail is compromised no matter how many
pixels you have in your images.
This chapter has essential information that you need to know at any level of image editing.
If you are a novice, read on. If you are an experienced image editor, you may want to read
this chapter for review. If you are experienced and don’t want the review, skip on to
Chapter 2.
4 ■ chapter 1: Resolution: The Cornerstone of Image Detail
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