DTF Glossary
Resampling
Resampling changes an image’s pixel dimensions by removing pixels or calculating new ones. It differs from changing resolution metadata, which can alter interpreted physical size without changing the grid. Upsampling may smooth an enlargement but cannot reconstruct fine detail, edge information, or type clarity that the source never contained.
In practice
Always state the starting pixels, intended physical size, algorithm, and resulting effective PPI. Judge the resampled file at final size, not only at a comfortable screen zoom.
Avoid resampling merely to make a preflight badge show a higher number. Request a better original when missing detail matters, or approve the limitation through a controlled physical test.