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To get to the Resize option, go to Image | Resize:
script-resize.gif (3K)

Here's what the Resizer looks like:

 

  • Pixel Dimensions - Default is set to Percent; I often use this for resizing, but not for my print photos. I have not explored the dropdown menu in this area yet *S*
  • Print size - Is so that you can tell it exactly what size you want. Default is Inches (which is what I'll use since I'm American...perhaps other countries would use another option *S*)
  • Resolution - At this time, a resolution of 72 is for the web. I've read that 200-300 works just fine for print. If your image is already 72, then if you increase the resolution in this area, the actual size will decrease accordingly. I'm not real experienced with printing, so that's as far as I'll go LOL
  • Resampling - The experts say it's best to use one setting for resizing smaller, and another setting to resize larger. Smart Size will detect which way the resizing is going, and apply the best choice.
  • Lock aspect ratio - You'll almost always want this checked. The only time I've unchecked it, and reset it with a different ratio is when I've made a closeout logo for my pc (and that's because Windows sets their logo's for open/shutdown that way...think it's 0.8 if I recall properly)
  • Resize all layers - If you're working on a flattened/merged image, then you'll want this checked. If you're working on an image with multiple layers...you may wish to do it either way depending on if you want only that layer to resize, or all layers to resize.
  • (Maintain original print size - This is new; I have no idea what it does LOL)
script-resize2.gif (8K)

To get to the Unsharp (mask) option, click on the Icon shown below:
script-unsharp.gif (4K)

Here's what Unsharp looks like:
This screenshot has been optimized to decrease bandwidth,
you can't see any differences, but you'll be able to on your pc

Unsharp mask is how I prefer to sharpen my images, because it gives options...unlike the other sharpen tools. But it's difficult to explain, so I copied this from PSP7's Help file (thanks to Vixen of Verbiage for writing it for us).

  • Radius - The number of pixels around an edge that are affected. 0.5 to 2 is used generally. Stay at lower ranges for on-screen images, higher ranges for high resolution printed images.
  • Strength - Controls the intensity of the contrast, or sharpening effect. It is better to start with a low number and re-apply the effect, if necessary.
  • Clipping - Determines how much contrast two pixels must have before they are sharpened.
Some may notice that I have the numbers used in my Presets area. Since I often use these nubmers for web images (sometimes lowering the strength), I decided to save my settings by clicking on the Save button (next to the preset dropdown menu). I named it with the settings LOL
script-unsharp-dialog.gif (33K)