Files & editing / Learn by doing
Resampling explained simply
What is “Resampling”?
Changing the number of pixels in an image by calculating new pixel values or removing existing ones.
- 01Original pixels
- 02New dimensions
- 03Recalculated pixels
How do you use Resampling practically?
A small exercise
Make a copy of a photograph and resize it down, then enlarge that copy. Compare detail with the original.
- Make a starting version and keep it so you can compare fairly.
- Try the change in the exercise. Keep unrelated choices steady where the exercise allows.
- Compare the result at the size your viewer will actually see. Write down what changed and whether it helped.
How does Resampling solve a problem?
It creates files sized for a website or specific delivery requirement.
What can go wrong?
Enlargement estimates new information. It cannot always recover genuine fine detail that was never recorded.
How do you turn the idea into a useful solution?
Start with the specific problem in your image or brief, try the exercise, and keep the version that meets that need. If the result is worse, return to the starting version and change one choice at a time.
Quick check: can you explain the three ideas in the diagram?
Original pixels → New dimensions → Recalculated pixels. Explain how each relates to the exercise. Then compare the starting version with your result and choose the one that meets your brief.
Related video lesson
File formats — Canon
This related lesson gives wider context for the topic. Camera menus and software versions may differ from yours.
Loading the player connects to YouTube. You can also watch the lesson on YouTube.Keep exploring
Try the idea in a studio shoot
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