Resolution

Definition

Resolution refers to the amount of detail an image or video can display, typically measured in pixels. For digital screens and images, it is defined by the number of horizontal and vertical pixels, such as 1920x1080 (Full HD) or 3840x2160 (4K). Higher resolution means more pixels, which generally results in sharper images and finer detail.

Resolution is not only about clarity but also about how visuals are displayed across devices. The same resolution can appear differently depending on screen size and pixel density, often expressed as pixels per inch (PPI) or dots per inch (DPI).

Advanced

At an advanced level, resolution interacts with other factors such as compression, aspect ratio, and display technology. For video, resolutions follow standards such as 720p (HD), 1080p (Full HD), 1440p (Quad HD), 2160p (4K), and 4320p (8K). In print, resolution affects the sharpness of output and is usually set at 300 DPI for professional quality.

Modern devices also use scaling and pixel density (like Apple’s Retina displays) to optimise visual experience. In streaming and broadcasting, adaptive resolution adjusts dynamically based on available bandwidth to balance quality and performance.

Why it matters

• Determines visual clarity and sharpness of images and video.
• Influences file size, storage needs, and bandwidth requirements.
• Impacts user experience across different devices and screen sizes.
• Plays a key role in professional photography, videography, and printing.

Use cases

• Recording video content in 4K for higher detail and editing flexibility.
• Designing website graphics optimised for both desktop and mobile screens.
• Printing marketing materials at 300 DPI for professional quality.
• Streaming services are adjusting resolution dynamically for smoother playback.

Metrics

• Pixel dimensions (e.g., 1920x1080, 3840x2160).
• Pixel density measured in PPI or DPI.
• Bitrate requirements for video at different resolutions.
• Storage space used by higher-resolution media.

Issues

• Higher resolution increases file size and processing demands.
• Mismatched resolution can cause stretching, cropping, or pixelation.
• Low resolution reduces clarity and professionalism.
• Inconsistent optimisation may lead to poor performance on certain devices.

Example

A video production company films a commercial in 4K resolution. The footage is later exported in both 1080p for web streaming and 4K for cinema display. This approach ensures sharpness across platforms while managing storage and bandwidth.