Making photographs smaller and clearer
When I’d like to resize a photograph to a smaller size for use with eBay or Craigslist listings, I use IrfanView - free software that you can install on your Windows computer at home. IrfanView gives you the ability to resize images, convert your photograph to a different graphic file type (say jpeg to GIF) and for quickly viewing a directory of photographs all at once — and there are many additional features this software provides.
Use IrfanView to reduce the photograph’s dimensions and to sharpen the details in the (now) smaller photo. Here’s an example of how I do it:
Original photograph:
Now, resize the photograph to a width of 300 pixels:
There are several options in the Resize/Resample window — I usually stick with manually setting a “new size”. Do try different settings yourself.
After the photo has been resized. Do you see how the photo lacks sharpness? Look at the number 12 on the truck’s running board.
Using IrfanView’s Sharpen control:
Look at how the photograph’s detail is returned — color’s “seem” a little brighter as well.
Altogether, compare the photo changes:
