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Photography & video

Scanning Resolution Calculator

Find pixel dimensions produced by scanning a physical original at a chosen resolution.

Units clearly labeledCheck practical equipment limits
Photo & video desk
Photo & video desk

Match the sensor, lens and output settings to your equipment.

See the method

Set up your shot

Runs on your device

Your camera calculation

Your result

Let’s calculate.

Use the Calculate button to see your result.

Review the method below for assumptions and conventions.

How to use this tool

  1. Enter original width, original height, scanning resolution.
  2. Select Calculate to view the result.
  3. Check the method and assumptions below before using the result.

The method, explained

Pixels = centimetres/2.54 × dots per inch, rounded to the nearest whole pixel.

A WORKED EXAMPLE

Using original width = 21 cm, original height = 29.7 cm, scanning resolution = 300 dpi, the result is 8.69984 MP. Change these example inputs to match your task; use the method above to check each step.

Understanding your result

Assumes one image sample per nominal scanner dot. Interpolated resolution does not add optical detail.

What to keep in mind

Assumes one image sample per nominal scanner dot. Interpolated resolution does not add optical detail. An ideal geometric or exposure estimate. Lens behavior, stabilization, sensor crop and scene conditions may change practical results.

Common questions

How do I use this scanning resolution calculator?

Find pixel dimensions produced by scanning a physical original at a chosen resolution. Enter original width in cm, original height in cm, scanning resolution in dpi. The starting example is editable; use values for the same system or project.

Which assumptions affect this result?

Assumes one image sample per nominal scanner dot. Interpolated resolution does not add optical detail.

Methodology maintained by ClarityKit. How these tools are built and checked.