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Can I Print This iPhone Shot Huge?

  • Charles Wallace
  • Jul 14
  • 2 min read
A hand with rings holds a phone, capturing a sunset through arches. The sky is pink and purple, creating a serene and calm mood.

How Big Can You Print Your iPhone Photo?


Smartphone cameras are better than ever, but that doesn’t mean every photo can be blown up to poster size. If you’ve ever wondered whether your iPhone photo can be printed as a 40x60 wall art piece—or if it’s only safe for an 8x10—you’re not alone. Let’s break down what affects print size and how to get the most out of your phone images.



Why iPhone Photos Have Size Limits


iPhones (and all phones) save images in a resolution that looks great on screens—but screens and prints are two different worlds. Prints rely on pixels per inch (PPI) to keep things sharp, and once you stretch an image beyond its resolution, it can start to look blurry or pixelated.


The higher your camera resolution, the bigger you can print without losing quality.



iPhone Photo Print Size Guide


This table gives a general idea of maximum recommended print sizes at 300 PPI (for fine art/photo print quality) and 150 PPI (for larger, more forgiving viewing distances like wall art):



iPhone Photo Print Size Guide

iPhone Model

Megapixels

Max Size @ 300 PPI

Max Size @ 150 PPI

iPhone 6 / 6s

8 MP

8" x 10.5"

16" x 21"

iPhone 7 / 8 / SE (2nd gen)

12 MP

9.5" x 12.5"

19" x 25"

iPhone X / XS / 11 / 12 / 13

12 MP

9.5" x 12.5"

19" x 25"

iPhone 14

12 MP or 48 MP (Pro only)

9.5" x 12.5" or 15.5"x 20.5 "

19" x 25" or 31" x 41.5"

iPhone 15 Pro / Pro Max

48 MP

15.5" x 20.5"

31" x 41.5"

Note: These are estimates based on full-resolution JPEGs in good lighting. Cropping, zooming, or poor lighting will reduce usable resolution.



Hands holding a smartphone capturing a photo of an abstract pattern. Blurred background with warm, dim lighting. Focused and creative mood.

Tips to Maximize Print Quality From Your iPhone


Want to get the best possible print from your iPhone? Here’s how:


1. Use the Main Camera (Not Zoom or Selfie)

The rear main camera has the highest resolution. Avoid digital zoom, it just crops the image.


2. Shoot in Good Light

Natural light (especially early morning or late afternoon) helps reduce graininess and boosts color detail.


3. Turn On “Apple ProRAW” or “Max Efficiency” (if available)

If you're using an iPhone 12 Pro or newer, enable Apple ProRAW in settings for higher-quality files with more editing flexibility.


4. Avoid Screenshots and Social Media Downloads

These are compressed and will look blurry in print. Always upload the original file from your camera roll.


5. Don’t Over-Edit

Heavy filters or sharpening can degrade print quality. Subtle edits preserve clarity.



So… Can You Go Big?


Yes—but it depends on your phone model and the quality of the shot. If you’re aiming for something large like a 30x40 or 40x60, it’s best to:


  • Use the latest iPhone Pro (with 48MP)


  • Shoot in ideal lighting


  • Avoid cropping


When in doubt, we’re happy to check your file before printing—just send it over and we’ll let you know what size will look best. Send a message to us! Support@artbeatstudios.com


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