SmugMug Print Resolution Requirements Guide
Understanding minimum image resolution requirements for SmugMug print products from BayPhoto, Loxley Color, Fujifilm, and WHCC.
Can't order certain print sizes on SmugMug? The most common reason is that your image resolution is too small for the desired print size. This guide explains resolution requirements and how to check if your images qualify.
Why print sizes are unavailable
When you add a photo to your SmugMug cart, certain print sizes may be grayed out or missing. This happens because:
- Image resolution is too low — The photo doesn't have enough pixels for quality printing at that size
- Aspect ratio doesn't match — The photo's shape doesn't fit the print dimensions without excessive cropping
- Lab-specific requirements — Different print labs have different minimum standards
Understanding resolution
Resolution is measured in pixels (width × height). Larger prints need more pixels to maintain quality:
- 4×6 print: ~1200 × 1800 pixels minimum
- 8×10 print: ~2400 × 3000 pixels minimum
- 16×20 print: ~4800 × 6000 pixels minimum
- 24×36 print: ~7200 × 10800 pixels minimum
These are approximate minimums. Actual requirements vary by print lab and product type.
SmugMug print lab partners
SmugMug works with several professional print labs, each with their own quality standards:
- BayPhoto — US-based lab
- WHCC (White House Custom Colour) — US-based lab
- Loxley Colour — UK/Europe-based lab
- Fujifilm — Available in various regions
Complete resolution database
For detailed, up-to-date minimum resolution requirements for every print product across all SmugMug labs, access this comprehensive database:
View SmugMug Print Resolution Database
The database includes requirements for:
- Standard prints (all sizes)
- Canvas wraps
- Metal prints
- Photo books
- Cards and announcements
- Other specialty products
How to check your image resolution
In Lightroom
- Select your photo in Library mode
- Look at the Metadata panel
- Find Dimensions (shows pixels as width × height)
In Photoshop
- Open your image
- Go to Image → Image Size
- Check the pixel dimensions
On Mac (Preview)
- Open the image in Preview
- Go to Tools → Show Inspector
- Look at the image dimensions
On Windows
- Right-click the image file
- Select Properties
- Click the Details tab
- Find Dimensions
Solutions for low-resolution images
If your image doesn't meet the requirements:
Choose a smaller print size
Select a print size that matches your image's resolution. Smaller prints need fewer pixels.
Use the original file
If you've edited or exported your photo, make sure you're uploading the highest resolution version. Avoid:
- Heavily cropped versions
- Web-optimized exports
- Social media exports
Upscale with AI tools
Modern AI upscaling tools can increase resolution while maintaining quality:
- Adobe Photoshop's Neural Filters
- Topaz Gigapixel AI
- ON1 Resize AI
AI upscaling works best for moderate increases (2-4×). Don't expect miracles from very small images.
Quick troubleshooting
| Problem | Likely cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No large print sizes available | Low resolution | Check pixel dimensions, use larger source |
| Some sizes missing | Aspect ratio mismatch | Choose sizes that match your photo's shape |
| Product grayed out | Below minimum for that product | Select different product or smaller size |
| Different options on different labs | Lab-specific requirements | Try a different lab or adjust size |