Why are my desktop pictures blurry?

Question

I have a 4 megapixel digital comera. I use my pictures only for desktop pictures on my computer. If I buy a camera with more megapixels ( e.g. 7) will my desktop picutres be sharper and better?

Mike in Mesa

Answer

This question was answered on June 21, 2007. Much of the information contained herein may have changed since posting.

More mega pixels on your digital camera likely won't help in this case. Most desktop resolutions are set to either 800x600 or 1024x768. This is generally best if you have a 15" LCD or a 17" CRT monitor. Having said this, your 4 mega pixel camera is more than enough for a desktop picture. Take a look at this chart:

Megapixels Resolution common print size

2 MP 1600x1200 10x13cm / 4x6"

3 MP 2048x1536 13x18cm / 5x7"

4 MP 2400x1600 18x23cm / 6x8"

6 MP 3000x2000 20x30cm / 7x10"

8 MP 3600x2400 30x40cm / 10x14"

As you can see, your camera can easily create good desktop pictures. Increasing your screen resolution likely will help more than a new camera. To do that go to your desktop. Right click on the background and select "Properties". Then click on the "Settings" tab near the top. There's a section called "Screen Resolution". I would drag the slider to at least 1024x768. Then click apply. The screen will flash and you will be prompted to confirm you want the screen to be the new resolution. If you can read the text, click "OK". This should help your picture look cleaner.

Hope this helps!

Author

Posted by Logan of Chandler-Gilbert Community College on June 21, 2007